Diet and nutrition play a significant role in oral health and preventing tooth decay.

Consuming a diet high in sugar and carbohydrates can lead to an increase in plaque, which can then lead to tooth decay. On the other hand, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as low in sugar and processed foods, can help maintain good oral health. The normal bacteria in your mouth feast when you eat and drink foods that contain sugar and carbohydrates, especially if you don´t brush and floss your teeth after eating.

Additionally, to prevent tooth decay:
1. Consume foods high in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk and cheese as this can help strengthen tooth enamel.
2. Limit snacking and eat a balanced diet.
3. Drink a sufficient amount of water as it helps to wash away food particles and neutralize plaque acids.
4. Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

It is important to maintain a good diet and proper oral hygiene habits, but it is also important to make an appointment to see your dentist regularly for a dental examination / dental check-up.

Dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health, preventing any dental problems you may have and helping to prevent future problems.

During a check-up, a dentist or dental hygienist will check for any signs of decay, cavities, or gum disease. They will also check the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) to see how it functions and if you grind or clench your teeth or suffer from bruxism. They may also take x-rays to check for problems not evident during a visual examination. If any issues are found, the dentist can provide treatment or make recommendations to prevent further damage.

Regular check-ups can also detect oral cancer at an early stage, which increases the chances of a successful outcome.

Additionally, check-ups allow dentists to monitor overall health, as oral health is linked to general health and well-being. It is important to schedule a dental check-up / dental examination at least once a year.

Proper flossing can help reduce the risk of gum disease and cavities, and is an important step toward having an overall healthy mouth. In fact, The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends flossing at least once a day in order to achieve optimal oral health.

Daily flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between the teeth — where a toothbrush can’t reach. If you are just learning to floss, you can experience minor discomfort. That usually comes from having the length of floss between your fingers too long and the floss either gets stuck and tears or you cut your gum. It’s important that you don’t stop flossing. If the discomfort doesn’t go away after a week or two of daily flossing, be sure to visit your dental office as soon as possible. Like everything, practice makes perfect.

Flossing Tips for Healthy Gums:

• Floss after brushing your teeth
• Glide the floss in between each tooth using a sawing motion
• Angle the floss in a “c” shape around the tooth and slightly below the gumline
• Repeat on each tooth
• Unravel the floss from your fingers, supplying fresh floss for each tooth

There is debate on whether you should floss before or after brushing. We suggest that which ever you choose the important thing is that you actually do it.

Even if you do floss routinely and assuming you floss correctly, it’s still very important to have regular visits with your dentist. If you’re in need of a professional cleaning or check-up, or if you just want to show off your healthy gums, call to schedule an appointment today.