Although quality oral care begins at home, your dentist still needs to see you twice a year for an exam and teeth cleaning. If your last dentist appointment was more than six months ago, turn to Hulse Dental in Onalaska, WI, for quality general and restorative dentistry services.

5 Tips to Protect Your Smile

1. Brush After Every Meal

Several innovative oral care products make it easy to brush your teeth after every meal, even when you’re on the go. By brushing every time you eat, you can prevent bacteria from thriving on leftover food particles in your mouth. And be sure to brush every morning after you get up and every evening before bed to help prevent bacteria and oral caries from settling on your teeth and gums for long periods of time.

2. Floss Before Bed

According to the Delta Dental Oral Health and Well-Being Survey, only 40% of Americans floss at least once a day, and 20% of respondents claimed they never floss at all. Flossing not only helps prevent dental caries by removing particles stuck between teeth it also helps maintain the health of your gums. By incorporating flossing into your nighttime routine, you can make it a daily habit and enjoy superior oral hygiene.

3. Use Mouthwash Every Morning

Mouthwash does more than keep your breath minty fresh, although that should be all the reason you need to swish it every morning—especially if you’re a coffee drinker. Aside from keeping your breath fresh all day long, antimicrobial mouthwash can ward off decay and help prevent gum disease.

4. Avoid Excessive Sugar

Foods that contain natural sugar—such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products—will not cause decay if you practice diligent oral hygiene habits. However, if you consume foods that contain a lot of added sugar, like candy and soda, you may see an increase in dental caries. If you do consume sugary foods, do not sip all day or let candies sit in your mouth. Eating a small amount of cheese after sugary foods can help eliminate bacteria that causes dental caries.  

5. Skip the Starch

It might come as a surprise, but starches, including crackers, cereal, and bread, can contribute to the buildup of plaque along the gum line. If you know you will not be able to brush your teeth for a long time after eating, try to avoid starchy foods. Otherwise, the paste they make when combined with your saliva will sit on your teeth all day and promote decay. Foods like apples, cheese and other fruits are good options instead.

If you have further questions about these healthy oral hygiene habits, the friendly staff at Hulse Dental in Onalaska, WI, will be more than happy to answer them. Visit their website to learn more about their oral care services, and call (608) 783-1306 to make an appointment today.