Tips For A Healthier Smile
You can achieve a beautiful and healthy smile, but you have to put some time and effort into your teeth and gums. If you are looking to improve your smile, there are steps you can take to make it happen. The Furumoto Dentistry experts, your Diamond Bar, CA, family dentist share these tips for a healthier smile.
Start with the Basics: Brush and Floss
You should brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day. Your teeth will be whiter, and your gums will be healthier with frequent brushing. When brushing, you should keep the brush bristles toward the gum line at a 45-degree angle to remove plaque from under the gums. Flossing helps remove plaque where a brush can't reach, such as under the gumline and between teeth. If you don't floss, you have a greater risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and, potentially, periodontal disease.
Invest in a High-Quality Toothbrush
If you can, invest in an electric toothbrush. They are proven to remove more plaque than a regular toothbrush. There are many models available, so do your homework before purchasing an electric toothbrush. If you can't afford an electric toothbrush, use a manual brush with soft bristles. Medium and stiff bristle brushes have the potential of wearing down your tooth enamel and causing receding gums.
Professional Cleanings Twice a Year
Even if you maintain excellent oral hygiene, it is essential that you have a professional cleaning twice per year. A dental hygienist can remove stains and tartar that build up over time. If you neglect to get professional cleanings, it can lead to gum disease, leaving you with swollen, bleeding, receding gums, and eventually bone and tooth loss.
Quit Smoking
Smoking stains your teeth. Stains on the surface of your teeth can be removed when a hygienist polishes your teeth, but over time it can seep into the enamel, and the stains are permanent. Smoking can also damage your gums and contribute to gum disease. It can cause your gums to recede, and pockets can develop around your teeth, which are very difficult to keep clean.
Limit Staining Drinks
Coffee, tea, and red wine are staining culprits, so you should limit your intake of these drinks to avoid staining. After consuming these drinks, you should rinse your mouth with water to reduce the chances of staining. Tap water also contains fluoride, which helps protect your teeth from decay. You should also limit sugary drinks because sugar turns to acid, which causes tooth decay and weakens your enamel.
See Your Diamond Bar Family Dentist for Treatment
Make sure you see your dentist if you are having issues. A small cavity can quickly become a severe tooth abscess, which may require a root canal and a dental crown instead of a simple filling.
Cosmetic Dentistry
If you'd like to do more to improve the health and look of your smile, there are a range of cosmetic and other treatments options:
You can choose one, several, or a combination of cosmetic procedures to achieve the results you're after. If you're not sure what procedures are right for you, don't worry! Your Diamond Bar family dentist will work closely with you to come up with the ideal treatment plan that addresses all your concerns!
Visit the Leading Diamond Bar, CA, Family Dentists Today!
Ready to get a healthier smile? We're ready to help! At Furumoto Dentistry, we welcome all dental-related questions. Our warm and knowledgeable staff is standing by to answer any of your questions or to help put you in our books for our next available appointment. Simply give us a call at 909-861-3515 or set up your appointment online. See you soon!