The Hartford Dental Office building in Hartford, WI

Oral Health Tips

Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential to good oral health. Ensuring that your mouth is healthy is important to overall well being. It can also help you avoid painful and expensive cavities, oral infections, and diseases of the mouth like gingivitis. Studies have also shown that plaque buildup on teeth can contribute to artery and heart disease, so regular brushing and flossing is essential. Good oral health can also help you avoid embarrassing conditions like bad breath or yellowing teeth. Make sure include regular brushing as a part of your everyday routine, and your teeth and gums will thank you.

Brushing and Flossing

  • Always brush your teeth before bed time, and after every meal if at all possible.
  • Use toothpaste that contains fluoride to help prevent cavities.
  • A soft head toothbrush is best; hard bristles can be too tough on teeth and cause irritation of the enamel and receding gums.
  • Flossing after brushing each time helps remove plaque from between the teeth, and helps with breath.
  • Brush your tongue as well as your teeth to help eliminate mouth-borne bacteria.
  • Be sure to brush below the gum line as well as directly on the teeth.
  • While brushing, the length of time it takes to brush should be no less than two minutes.

Healthy Diet

  • Avoid eating too much sugar and drinking sugary drinks such as soda, sweetened teas, or fruit juices.
  • Chewing sugarless gum after a meal is a good way to substitute brushing in between meals; it can help remove food particles from between the teeth..
  • Snacking between meals should be limited. If you choose to snack, try to eat healthy foods without sugar.
  • Acidic foods and drink such as oranges or orange juice can promote tooth decay and enamel wear. If you do consume acidic foods, be sure to brush your teeth afterwards.
  • Vitamin deficiency can cause tooth decay and oral disease. Make sure you are getting enough essential vitamins such as the B vitamins, calcium, and other much needed essentials.
  • Fresh fruits like apples can be good for your teeth because they can help remove loose foods and clean the surface of your teeth.

Long-Term Dental Care

  • Getting regular teeth cleanings and checkups at the dentist every six months is
  • Replace your toothbrush every two months to ensure proper cleaning. Keep brushes free from germs.
  • A sealant can be applied to the teeth by an oral health professional, which will help protect enamel and keep teeth looking their best.
  • If you have a toothache, it is important to seek dental care immediately as this could be a potential infection or abscess tooth.
  • Avoid chewing tobacco or smoking to help ensure gum, mouth, and teeth health for life.
  • Good long term dental care can prevent excess dentist visits, cavities, yellowing teeth, and bad breath.
  • Always communicate any changes in tooth sensitivity, tastes in your mouth, or other issues with your dentist so they can help assess potential problems.