There’s nothing better than that slippery smooth feeling right after having your teeth professionally cleaned. Wouldn’t you want to do everything you could to keep your teeth looking and feeling amazing between visits?
The Spruce Roots team of cosmetic dentists in Fairbanks, has a few tips to keep your smile bright:
Chew Gum
It may sound odd, but chewing gum can be good for you – the right gum, that is. It’s important to choose a gum that contains Xylitol. Xylitol is a particular type of sweetener that actually prevents plaque bacteria from collecting on your teeth.
You can dramatically reduce the amount of plaque buildup on your teeth by chewing xylitol-sweetened gum a few times throughout the day. We especially recommend chewing a piece after meals or snacks, when you’re away from home and can’t brush. There are even xylitol-sweetened lollipops for younger kids.
Use the Right Toothbrush
Harder is not better. A medium or stiff-bristled brush can actually leave your teeth dirtier than a gentle one. The soft bristles of the right toothbrush are able to flex around the curved contours of your teeth, picking up and brushing away the plaque buildup around the edges. Light pressure and a smooth circular motion is all that’s needed. And set that timer! Two minutes of brushing allows you to thoroughly brush every surface.
Drink Plenty of Water
You can reduce your risk of tooth decay just by choosing the right beverages. Of course, we’re not suggesting that you completely give up that morning coffee or an evening glass of wine—we wish you would, but we’re realists! But you can tip the scales in your favor by choosing water more often than not.
Drinking water after meals, snacks, or throughout the day can wash away excess bacteria from your mouth and help neutralize the acidity of your saliva. Although it isn’t as effective as brushing and flossing, drinking and rinsing with water will decrease the plaque levels on your teeth.
Drink Through a Straw
If you’re going to enjoy a glass of iced tea, soda, or other stain-causing beverage, try drinking it through a straw! This allows the stain particles to bypass the most visible part of your smile, keeping your front teeth whiter, longer.
Remember to Clean Between
Most tartar (calculus) buildup starts between the teeth and along the gum line. Plaque will begin to calcify if you aren’t flossing at least once a day. This leaves a hard yellow or brown buildup over your tooth that can only be removed by your dental hygienist. Wrap your floss tightly around your tooth and slide up and down below the gum lines several times. If you have any irritation or mild bleeding, it could signal that you are developing gingivitis. It should go away within 10-14 days of daily flossing.
Between Dr. Willis and the rest of the Spruce Roots Family staff, we are committed to helping you keep your smile healthy. When you visit our dental office, we’ll equip you with the knowledge you need to fight off plaque, tartar and stains between your check-ups.
If you’re ready to have the best dental care of your life, call Spruce Roots Family Dentistry to schedule your consultation today!
