The best way to enjoy a nice smile and healthy teeth is to continue the good oral habits started early in childhood*. It is important to:
• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove Plaque. Plaque causes tooth decay, that why it is important to get most of it out by brushing.
• Floss daily, Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and under your gumline. Plaque can turn into tartar. Tartar is hard yellow build-up.
• Limit sugary foods, especially sticky snacks.
• Visit the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.
It is pleasant to keep a clean mouth, as it keeps your breath fresh and nicer looking smile.
What special dental issues should you know about?
Being informed about the issues that affect oral health can help you make the best decisions.
• Orthodontics – many teens need braces to fix crowded or crooked teeth and poor jaw alignment. An orthodontic evaluation will determine if you need braces, and what type of treatment is right for you. If you wear braces, extra care should be taken to properly clean your teeth.
• Mouth Guards — if you play sports, mouth guards are critical to protecting your smile. These devices typically cover the upper teeth, and are designed to protect against broken teeth, cut lips and other damage to your mouth. If you wear braces or other fixed dental appliances (such as a bridge) on your lower jaw, your dentist may suggest a mouth protector for these teeth as w ell.
• Nutrition — nutrition plays a key role in your dental health. The sugars and starches in many snack foods and drinks support the formation of plaque, which destroys tooth enamel. Limit the number of snacks you eat and drink — each time you consume foods and drinks that contain sugars or starches, your teeth are attacked by acids for 20 minutes or more. Eating a well-balanced diet from the five food groups can make a big difference in your dental health. For snacks, choose