We trust the health of our teeth and gums to our St. Petersburg, FL, dentists, but who’s in charge of keeping your mouth healthy in between your 6-month dental checkups? YOU, that’s who! Many local dentists in St. Petersburg give similar tips on how to make sure your teeth stay in tip-top shape during the months between your regular dental cleanings. Keep reading to learn more!
4 Tips to a Healthy Mouth, According to Local St. Petersburg, FL, Dentists
Tip #1: Beware the Sugar Bug!
When you indulge in sugar-heavy treats such as candy or soda, the sugary residue left behind on your teeth creates a breeding ground for unhealthy bacteria. Given enough time, that bacteria can result in a variety of problems, including tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. To avoid getting “sugar bugs” in your mouth, limit your intake of high-sugar and high-corn-syrup foods and drinks. If you do have a sugary treat, then brush your teeth afterward – or at least rinse your mouth with plain water to dilute the sugar.
Tip #2: Brush & Floss Daily
You’ve probably heard this one before, but it certainly bears repeating. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day not only removes the sugar and food particles that attract bacteria; it also removes plaque before it can harden into tartar. Tartar can form in under 24 hours, so missing even one day of brushing means you will likely end up with tartar that your toothbrush won’t be able to remove.
Tip #3: Make Fluoride Your Friend
Fluoride is a mineral that can actually repair very early damage to your teeth on a microscopic level. By drinking fluoride-infused water (such as city tap water) and by rinsing your mouth once a day with a fluoride-based mouthwash, you can help to keep your teeth strong and less prone to chipping or cracks.
Tip #4: Ask St. Petersburg Dentists about Sealants
Dental sealants are a preventative material that many dentists in St. Petersburg, FL, can put over the deep crevices in your back teeth. This keeps your teeth from having too many crevices where food particles or bacteria can get caught. This way, dental sealants from St. Petersburg dentists can stop cavities or tooth decay before it even has a chance to start. At your next appointment with your dentist, ask if sealants would be a good option for you.
5-Star-Rated St. Petersburg, FL, Dentists Urge Their Patients to Reduce the Risk of Cavities
Sometimes, cavities just happen, no matter what kind of preventative measures you take for your oral health. However, with these four simple steps, you can make tooth decay and gum disease much less likely to occur in between your regular dental exam and dental cleaning with your St. Petersburg dentist. Here’s to keeping your mouth happy and healthy!
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to dentistry, feel free to contact Dr. Bruce M. Crawford, with a convenient dental office in St. Petersburg, FL, by clicking here or by calling 727.231.5908.