These Two Tips Will Help You Maintain Your Oral Health

Regular dental checkups at Juban Cowen Dental Care are only part of the picture for optimal oral health. Certainly, regular checkups are one of the most important aspects for the maintenance of healthy teeth and gums, but there are other steps you can take that will also help keep your smile bright and healthy.

Time for a New Toothbrush?

Unless you are one of a select group of people who knows when to change your toothbrush, you are most likely brushing your teeth with a brush that has seen better days. Many people are unaware of the fact that toothbrush manufacturers and dentists recommend your toothbrush be replaced every three to four months. That adds up to about three to four new ones a year. There is a reason for the frequent replacement.

Your oral health can be compromised by using an outdated toothbrush. Old toothbrushes can spread infection. Toothbrushes are also used to help put an end to bad breath. Your toothbrush, whether manual or electronic, is meant to eliminate food debris and the bacteria that causes dental decay and gum disease. Strep throat and other bacterial and viral infections can be caused by using a worn-out toothbrush.

When you or a family member recover from an illness, it is a good idea to toss the toothbrush used during the illness with a fresh one. By doing this you help minimize the chances of spreading disease and becoming reinfected.

Clean, straight bristles keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. Brush the recommended two minutes twice a day and your breath will stay fresh and your mouth healthy. The average toothbrush generally gives you three to four months of effective service.

Water is Your Best Friend

Hydration is important all year round and especially during these months of extreme heat. Keeping your mouth moist is crucial for oral health. Your saliva contains nutrients and minerals that help strengthen teeth. It is also responsible for washing away food debris. When you experience dry mouth from lack of hydration, your saliva production is lower.

A low saliva production allows bad bacteria to proliferate and may make it more difficult to chew and swallow your food. With proper hydration, this problem is eliminated. The water not only provides moisture to your mouth, but it also helps wash away the decay causing acids produced by the bacteria.

We believe in preventive dentistry at Juban Cowen Dental Care, so we help our patients seek out that which will help them maintain their best oral health. Call us today to schedule an appointment to ensure that your teeth are in their best condition.