How Do I Keep My Smile Healthy if I’m Staying Home?
March 25, 2020
Across the country, many people are staying in to protect their community by slowing the spread of COVID-19. While you may not be able to see us for routine treatments, like checkups and cleanings, you can still take steps to safeguard your smile with daily brushing and flossing. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist talks about keeping smiles healthy.
The Causes of Cavities and Gum Disease
Cavities and gum disease are both very common oral health issues that could threaten the stability of your smile and lead to seriously uncomfortable symptoms. A cavity forms when bacteria is allowed to move past the outer layers of tooth enamel and reach the inner structures. This happens when the outer tooth enamel is weakened and eroded, usually through poor oral hygiene. When we eat foods high in sugar and starch, this increases the risk of plaque buildup, a sticky layer that forms on the teeth and weakens enamel. The same layer of plaque could also irritate and inflame the gum tissue, leading to a higher risk of gingivitis and gum disease. To protect your smile while at home, you need to reduce the severity of plaque buildup!
Brushing and Flossing Your Teeth
Brushing and flossing helps reduce the severity of plaque buildup, decreasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. You should brush your teeth when you wake up and again before going to bed. Each session should last two minutes, and use a toothpaste that contains fluoride, an agent that strengthens the outer tooth enamel. Before bed, you also need to floss up and down each side of each tooth, making contact with the gum line to remove trapped food particles.
Better Snack and Drink Options
You can also help by denying bacteria sugary and starchy particles to break down and create plaque with. For example, try to avoid candies, sweets, and chocolates high in sugar. Cut back on starchy potato chips. Instead, consume more fresh fruits and vegetables. Sugar-free gum, low-fat yogurt, nuts, and cheeses also make healthy snack options. Drink more water too! Cut back on soda, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices as well. With a better diet, you protect your oral health during your time inside. If you have any questions about how to protect your smile’s health, or if you find yourself faced with a dental emergency situation, then please contact our team today.
Do You Have Questions About Preventive Dentistry?
We want to help you enjoy better oral health with quality homecare and better dental hygiene habits. To learn more about our preventive procedures and homecare, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.