In honor of Valentine’s Day, show your teeth some tender loving care beginning with a refortified commitment to giving them special attention in your daily routine.
Valentine’s Day is here and it’s not just your loved ones that you should be thinking about. Spend a little time this February showing your teeth some love. These simple tips will get you on your way to maintaining great dental health and a bright smile between dental visits.
❤ Fight For Me Every Day
While most people are aware that dentists recommend brushing teeth twice daily across all surfaces of your teeth, they do not always know that your tongue also needs regular cleaning. The tongue is a prime residence for bacteria that causes bad breath. Fight bacteria by giving your tongue a quick brush from the back to the front before you put the toothbrush down
❤ Know When to Give Me Space
While brushing is an important part of dental care, knowing when not to brush can be just as vital. Acidic foods, such as wine, juice, and soda, erode the enamel of the teeth. This gradual deterioration can lead to discoloration and sensitivity. Make sure to brush prior to ingesting acidic drinks or wait at least 30 minutes after ingestion to prevent tooth weakening and discoloration.
❤ Kick Up Our Chemistry
Foods with high alkaline properties can help neutralize the enamel damaging effects of acidic foods. Rather than aiding in the breakdown of tooth enamel by brushing, reach for a small bite of cheese, a handful of almonds, or a slice of avocado to counteract the effects of soda or coffee. Vegetables such brussel sprouts, asparagus, and broccoli are also highly alkaline foods that will help keep your teeth strong.
❤ Let Your Love Flow
Whiter teeth are the ultimate goal for many dental patients. While tips for taking care of your teeth like drinking juice through a straw may be impractical, a simple step that dental patients can do to achieve a brighter smile is simply drink a glass of water after meals. Because Arkansas water sources contain a certain amount of fluoride, ingesting water after every meal can help wash away bacteria and prevent foods from staining your teeth.
❤ Little Gifts Go A Long Way
Having the right tools to care for your teeth is just as important as putting aside time for dental hygiene. Remember to replace tooth brushes on a consistent basis and invest in accessories such as dental picks and mouthwash formulated to your dental needs that will keep your teeth, gums, and tongue bacteria and plaque-free.
❤ Let’s Get Physical
Flossing may seem time consuming to some patients, but it’s incredibly important. By reaching the bacteria hiding in the crevasses of the teeth and gums that brushing alone does not reach, flossing helps to clean teeth most effectively. Not only does flossing prevent gingivitis, but it also prevents the spread of bacteria that can develop into endocarditis and other heart diseases.
❤ Relationships Require Regular Check-Ins
These simple tips for taking care of your teeth are not all that you should do to protect your teeth. Professional dental care is important, so contact the friendly staff at Arkansas Family Dental to help ensure the health of your pearly whites. We offer a wide array of services including professional teeth cleaning, education on dental health, and restorative procedures. Show your teeth some love this Valentine’s Day by scheduling an appointment with Arkansas Family Dental.
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