Posted: October 7, 2021
It’s National Dental Hygiene Month, a great time to seriously consider how well you are taking care of your teeth and gums.
Having a healthy mouth is important for several reasons, not the least of which is aesthetics. Clean teeth look healthier and can help ensure a bright and attractive smile. Equally important, serious oral health issues brought about by insufficient oral care, such as progressive gum disease (periodontitis,) can increase risks for a host of systemic concerns including:
- Heart Disease
- Hypertension
- Certain Types of Cancer
- Type 2 Diabetes
- Dementia
Taking proper care of your teeth and gums at home can help prevent oral health issues such as tooth infection or tooth loss, while also reducing your risks for these potentially deadly disorders and diseases.
At-Home Care
Preventive dentistry starts at home with a solid daily routine. This includes:
- Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth after every meal and snack
- Flossing your teeth at least once, but preferably twice a day
- Avoiding foods with added sugar
- Increasing your consumption of raw and crunchy fruits and vegetables
- Increasing your water intake to at least eight cups a day
It is important to remember that brushing should take place 30 minutes after eating. This helps to protect enamel that may have been softened by acidic foods or beverages. Flossing should be done before you brush both morning and night. This helps to remove the largest amount of bacteria and debris and is more effective at preventing decay, infection, and disease.
Professional Care
In addition to your daily routine, common dental problems can often be completely avoided through regularly scheduled dental visits. Taking place every six months, these visits allow our dentists to both thoroughly clean your teeth and check for signs of potential issues before they become more worrisome problems. Once a year, we will utilize advanced digital technology to thoroughly inspect your teeth for decay and other issues, allowing us to help you keep your smile strong, healthy, and attractive all year round.
If it has been longer than six months since your last visit, call our Hoboken office at 201-792-9400 and schedule your next visit today.
