Want a Gold Star Smile? Preventive Dentistry Is Key

How was your last dental visit? Was it short and simple because your smile was in great shape, or did you need several fillings and extensive plaque removal? If you want to ace your next checkup and keep your smile healthy in the process, preventive care is absolutely essential. Luckily, there are a lot of things you can do at home to help ensure you receive that metaphorical gold star sticker at your next cleaning. Plus, preventive care, combined with a healthy diet, is the best way to help keep your teeth and gums healthy in between dental visits.

What You Can Do At Home To Ace Your Next Checkup

Most every adult knows he or she should floss everyday, but few follow through both morning and night every single day. Skipping even a single brushing allows food particles and bacteria to start to form plaque, which can wreak havoc on your smile. So do not neglect such a simple part of a total dental hygiene routine.

Of course, flossing is equally important, and far more overlooked by many adults. In fact, some stop flossing when they notice their gums bleeding, wrongfully believing it to be “flossing’s fault.” On the contrary, bleeding, inflamed or red gums are all indicators that you have developed gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. The best way to reverse these symptoms is to schedule a checkup and cleaning, then follow up with daily oral care, including both brushing, flossing and a plaque-fighting mouthwash.

Another simple way to help take better care of your teeth is to drink plenty of water throughout the day, but especially with and right after meals, as well as after any staining beverages like dark teas, coffee and soda. Water helps keep you hydrated, and helps your mouth produce saliva, which is a natural plaque fighter. But drinking water can also help rinse food particles and beverages off of your teeth between brushings, making it a great way to limit staining as well as dental problems.