Are You Keeping Good Oral Hygiene Habits?

What your dentists in Ann Arbor want you to knoworal hygiene

When you keep good oral hygiene habits, you are protecting more than just your smile. Did you know that an unhealthy mouth has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease? The truth is a healthy mouth is vital to enjoying great health throughout your lifetime. Drs. Wayne and Brett Walcott at Walcott Dental in Ann Arbor, MI want to share how you can keep good oral hygiene habits to protect your smile and your health.

Tooth decay, gum disease, and periodontal disease all have one thing in common, plaque! The reason why plaque is so damaging is because it contains millions of microscopic bacteria that produce poisons which can destroy your teeth, gums, and supporting bone. When you keep good oral hygiene habits, it prevents bacterial plaque from doing damage to your smile and your health.

You can tell which people keep good oral hygiene habits. They are the people with light pink, healthy gums, and white teeth with few or no dental fillings or other restorations. You want to be one of these people, and you can join this lucky club by practicing good oral hygiene.

Every good oral hygiene program consists of:

Brushing your teeth after each meal and before you go to sleep; many people prefer a sonic or electric toothbrush. If you use a conventional toothbrush, make certain it has soft-bristles to avoid damaging your teeth.

Use a toothpaste containing fluoride; many “natural” types of toothpaste don’t contain fluoride, so they provide no protection against tooth decay. Check to see that your toothpaste has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.

You should also floss your teeth at least once daily because brushing doesn’t get in between your teeth where most cavities and gum disease starts.

Don’t forget to visit your dentist at least once each year for x-rays and a dental exam. Dental exams are the best way to prevent a dental problem before it can start. You should also have professional dental cleanings every six months, more often if you have periodontal disease.

Keeping good oral hygiene habits is easier than you think, and well worth your time and effort. A healthy smile looks better and keeps you healthy too! For more information about keeping good oral hygiene habits, call Drs. Wayne and Brett Walcott at Walcott Dental in Ann Arbor, MI today!

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