If you are concerned about the health of your teeth, you may be looking for ways to maintain better dental health. Here are a few measures that you can take to protect the health of your teeth and gums.
Limit Acidic Foods and Drinks
If you regularly enjoy citrus fruits and juices, sodas, and other acidic items, you may be causing damage to your teeth and gums. The tooth enamel is made up of minerals that dissolve when exposed to acid. The main cause of tooth decay is bacterial acid from the microbes that live in the mouth. However, acidic foods and drinks can also damage the tooth enamel. The acid displaces the minerals, leaving the enamel corroded and weak.
The acid also inflames the gingival tissues, making them more likely to develop gum disease. By fully avoiding acidic substances, you can prevent damage to your teeth and gums.
Nevertheless, most people still indulge in acidic foods and drinks at times. Here are some precautions that you can take to minimize any associated damage:
Use a Water Flosser
Many people avoid flossing because they may find it difficult to use string floss. However, string floss is not the only option for flossing the teeth. Water flossers, which are also called oral irrigators, use a stream of water to flush away plaque and food particles.
A water flosser includes a wand to easily direct the water between the teeth and along the gum line. Additionally, some flossers have variable settings that allow you to pulsate the water to massage the gums and encourage proper circulation for healthier tissues.
Treat Tooth Decay Quickly
If decay does develop in a tooth, it is best to treat it quickly. Decay can spread to the other teeth in your mouth. Additionally, it can breach the underlying layers of tooth material, leading to a dental infection.
Once a tooth becomes infected, the nerves of the tooth may be irreparably damaged. A root canal procedure or even an extraction may be necessary. Early treatment can prevent serious issues that may affect your overall oral health.
For more information about protecting your teeth and gums, schedule an appointment at a clinic like Cross Creek Family Dental.
Share17 January 2018
After dealing with a few root canals, I realized that it was time to take my dental hygiene a more seriously. I talked with my dentist about what I could do differently, and he was full of great suggestions that would help. He walked me through different ways to brush, floss, and take care of tartar buildup, and it was really amazing to see the difference that it made. I also started taking a fluoride supplement to strengthen my enamel. When I made it to my next appointment, my dentist was blown away with the improvement. This blog is all about improving your dental appointments by keeping your teeth healthier.
