Dental patients often ask how they can protect and maintain their oral health when they are at home. Many individuals ask about popular products in the media, such as charcoal toothpaste and bamboo toothbrushes.
So, what products are really worth the hype? What is the real “dentist recommended” toothpaste? How often should you really visit a dentist near you? Read more to find out.
DIY Oral Health Tips from Your Dentist in Wainwright
#1 A Healthy Diet
One of the best things that an individual can do for their oral hygiene is to avoid foods that are known for causing cavities, such as sugary foods and drinks. When you chew your food, it stimulates saliva production and balances the PH in your mouth, so eating some fruits and vegetables along with a cold glass of water is much better for your teeth than downing a smoothie.
#2 Fluoride
In the dental world, fluoride is a highly debated topic. Some patients are worried that fluoride may be toxic and ask about how safe it is for themselves and their families to use. Fluoride can be dangerous in large amounts, but it is very beneficial in preventing cavities by repairing tooth enamel.
So, dentists recommend that all patients use a fluoride toothpaste but focus on the amount they use to determine what is safe. When it comes to fluoride, an amount the size of a grain of rice is effective, as long as you are thorough with your brushing.
#3 Charcoal Toothpaste Actually Does Work
There are absolutely whitening benefits to using charcoal toothpaste! Just be sure not to use an abrasive version as this can damage your teeth and gums, and not completely ditch the fluoride toothpaste either.
#4 Avoid the Crunch
If you have noticed that your teeth are feeling sensitive, don’t aggravate the area with crunchy or sticky food. Hard and sticky foods can push a damaged tooth over the edge. Stick to soft foods and liquids until you can see a dentist.
#5 You Can Make Your Own Toothpaste
That’s right! While oral care is best done with professional products, if you do it right, you can make a toothpaste that benefits your dental health. Just make sure you use dentist-suggested ingredients and stay away from acidic and abrasive materials.
#6 Healthy Mouth = Healthy Teeth
The overall health of your mouth plays a huge role in how healthy your teeth are. Maintaining a balanced diet, including lots of water and good oral hygiene, are factors. However, many common medications can also cause issues in your mouth, such as dry mouth. Make sure that you speak to your dentist if you are experiencing symptoms of dry mouth. They have plenty of options to help you improve your dental hygiene in Wainwright.
#7 Tongue Scraping
Your tongue hosts of tons of bacteria in your mouth! Pick up a tongue scraper to improve your oral health and boost your immunity!
#8 Rinse, Rinse, Rinse
Rinsing is a great way to protect your teeth. While some people only rinse before bed, you can actually rinse after every meal to keep your teeth looking and feeling healthy!
#9 Don’t Skip Brushing Before Bed
Although you should be brushing twice a day, morning and evening, your evening brushing is especially important! Saliva production lessens at night, making your teeth more susceptible to harmful bacteria and increasing your risk of tooth decay.
#10 Call Your Dentist for a Check-Up
Listen, DIY tricks are great and can do an excellent job of promoting good oral health. However, you still need to visit a dental office at least twice a year to ensure that you are on the right track. And who knows? Maybe your dentist will feel like sharing more interesting DIY tips for maintaining dental hygiene near you!