With the fall season now underway, our dentists have some recommendations on how you can maintain good dental health during this time of the year.
1. Keep Your Mouth Clean
As an individual, you accumulate a lot of particles in your mouth during the course of a day. And with sweet fall treats like cider donuts, Halloween candy, and a Thanksgiving feast coming up, there’s plenty of excuses to indulge in sugary, savory goodies. Unfortunately, the bacteria that cause plaque and tartar thrive on sugary foods, meaning it may be harder than normal to keep your and your kids’ dental health in check this time of year. Make sure to brush for 2 minutes twice a day and floss before bed to avoid any (delicious) food particles from attracting bacteria and causing problems. By keeping your mouth as clean as possible, you will be able to ensure that your mouth remains healthy and that your next dental visit goes smoothly.
2. Buy a New Toothbrush
Another tip to maintaining your dental health during the year is to change your toothbrush or toothbrush head. Over time, the bristles wear out and become less effective at cleaning your teeth and gums. In order to maximize the effectiveness of brushing your teeth every day, it’s recommended to change your toothbrush every 3 months. This will allow you to use a brush that has thick bristles that are intact and more likely to eliminate particles from your teeth each day.
3. Use Xylitol (Sugar-Free) Gum
Sugar-free gum contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that bacteria can’t metabolize. Since it doesn’t break down like sugar, this type of gum allows frequent gum-chewers to enjoy their habit and favorite flavors while protecting their oral health.
4. Eliminate Destructive Habits
When looking to improve your dental health during the fall, it’s a good idea to take stock of certain habits that may be harmful for your teeth and gums. One of the habits that you will want to reduce is drinking sugar-packed beverages like pop and some coffee beverages. For people who struggle with clenching or grinding their teeth, now may be a good time to see us at Fennell, Yoxthimer and Associates to find a way to stop this damaging habit. Finally, it’s a myth that brushing more aggressively will help keep your teeth cleaner. In fact, brushing too hard can actually hurt your enamel and gums, so take a more gentle approach if that’s your mindset.
5. Start Beneficial Habits
The most beneficial habit you should be a pro at is brushing twice a day and flossing once per day. We tell our patients that mouthwash is beneficial, but not required, as it can help whiten the teeth and keep your breath fresh. Try to find a mouthwash with fluoride that strengthens enamel and kills bacteria for the most effective new habit.
6. Evaluate Your Insurance Policy
If you have dental insurance, you will want to look into your benefits to see if you have coverage for dental procedures. You will also want to find out if you have a low deductible and additional coverage for basic dental visits as well. Knowing your exact benefits will help you minimize the costs of your dental care.
Dentist in Cincinnati, Ohio
Good dental health is a year-round commitment that can feel tedious and boring, but that’s totally necessary for a healthy smile and beautiful teeth. Regular cleanings and checkups are also vital to maintaining a healthy mouth, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us whether it’s been 6 months or 2 years since your last appointment. Contact us online to schedule your appointment today.
