Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, virtually everyone is spending more time indoors and reevaluating their health habits, like how often they normally go out to eat. What a lot of people are neglecting to consider is their oral health. Since you’re stuck inside for the foreseeable future, now seems like as good a time as any to go over your dental health habits and start making choices that are more beneficial to your teeth and gums. A dentist in Big Pine Key has a few tips for helping you improve your oral healthcare.
Rinse with Mouthwash
Many people brush and floss as they should, but forget to add mouthwash as part of their oral hygiene regimen. Your teeth and gums only make up a small portion of your mouth, so swishing with an antibacterial mouthwash can easily clean the rest. Make sure to choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride, since that strengthens your teeth, and is alcohol-free, because alcohol dries out your mouth and actually increases your risk of oral infections.
Don’t Brush Too Hard
Some people believe that the more pressure you use to brush your teeth, the cleaner your pearly whites will be. In actuality, this practice does more harm than good. Applying too much force with your toothbrush can wear down your enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. Think of brushing your teeth like polishing an eggshell. Additionally, choose a brush with soft bristles to avoid applying too much pressure.
Remember to Brush Your Tongue
Your teeth and gums aren’t the only places where plaque can build up. It can also accumulate on your tongue. Not only can this contribute to serious bad breath, but bacteria on your tongue can re-deposit back onto your teeth, increasing your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. Brush your tongue from back to front every day after you clean your teeth.
Get Plenty of Fluoride
No matter what kind of toothpaste you choose, make sure it contains fluoride. This naturally occurring mineral strengthens your teeth, making them more resistant to cavities. Also, drink tap water instead of bottled water if you can. Tap water is often fortified with fluoride.
Eat Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Highly processed snacks may be quicker and easier to eat, but they’re not so beneficial for your pearly whites. Chewing on the crunchy skin of fibrous fruits and vegetables will naturally scrub your teeth clean. Furthermore, fruits and vegetables contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that strengthen your teeth and fight gum inflammation.
Although your dentist in Big Pine Key might not be open for non-emergency treatment for a few more months, you can still keep your teeth clean and healthy by following these tips.
About the Author
Dr. Amanda Cobb obtained her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Nova Southeastern University, where she underwent specialty training in dental implants and periodontics (treatment of the gums in particular). She is passionate about pursuing continuing education opportunities to keep her skills sharp and deliver the best care possible to her patients. Like most dentists, her practice is only taking dental emergencies. To learn more, visit Dr. Cobb’s website.