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There’s nothing more appealing than having a complete set of teeth with a pearly white smile. It can give you extra confidence in life, allowing you to interact and socialize with the people around you.
Unfortunately, tooth plaque haunts everyone. As you eat and drink daily, it’s easy for these sticky films to form inside your mouth where the bacteria live and thrive. When left neglected, they can progress to tooth decay and gum diseases that can impact your oral health and your self-confidence.
That said, here are five practical tips for preventing plaque so that you can maintain your oral health.
1. Brush your teeth twice a day
Everyone knows that brushing teeth twice a day is necessary. However, some people do this only once a day, while others can bear a day without brushing their teeth. What they fail to realize is how easy it is to build plaque if they skip brushing their teeth.
When brushing, make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush for two minutes. Also, do it properly by holding your brush at a 45-degree angle, using gentle and circular strokes, covering your whole mouth, and brushing your tongue.
2. Floss your teeth after every meal
It’s not enough that you brush your teeth daily, but you have to floss your teeth after every meal. You can use flossing options, such as dental picks, pre-threaded flossers, water flossers, and wooden plaque removers. Plaque hides in the spaces between your teeth, and brushing alone doesn’t remove them. That’s why flossing your teeth is crucial.
3. Use a mouthwash to gargle
It’s a good idea to use a mouthwash to rinse, as this fluid can kill bacteria thriving in your mouth. It also helps loosen the plaque in your mouth, making it easier to remove them. However, be quite selective in choosing a mouthwash as some can cause gum inflammation and dry mouth. It’s best to check with your local dentist in Ann Arbor to see which mouthwash is right for you.
4. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks
Maintaining your oral health requires you to be wary of what you eat and drink. As you can see, some sugary and acidic foods and beverages can significantly impact your teeth. As far as food is concerned, avoid foods that are starchy and sticky. For beverages, veer away from coffee, carbonated soft drinks, and alcohol. They can severely damage your teeth, particularly if you don’t brush after consuming them.
5. Visit your dentist regularly
The rule of thumb is to visit your local dentist in Ann Arbor at least every six months for dental checkup and cleaning. However, if you feel that you have some dental issues, you don’t necessarily have to wait for six months. Get in touch with your local dentist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Taking care of your oral health is imperative. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss them after every meal, use a mouthwash to gargle, avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and visit your dentist regularly. Not only will all these improve your smile, but they will also boost your confidence and enhance your life quality.
We’re a dental house offering various forms of dental services in Ann Arbor and Waterford, MI. If you’re looking for a local dentist in Ann Arbor for your oral care, get in touch with us today for a free consultation!
