For a stunning smile, fresh breath, and a lifetime of strong, healthy teeth, you need to practice proper oral hygiene. Even if you brush your teeth twice a day, you may not be doing enough to prevent the likes of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. To help promote healthy oral hygiene among the Kailua Kona, HI, community and beyond, the friendly-family dentists from West Hawaii Community Health Center have a few key tips.

3 Dentist-Approved Tips for a Bright, Healthy Smile

1. Don’t Skip the Floss

Most people know that dentists recommend flossing at least once a day. However, only an estimated four in 10 Americans do so. Without daily flossing, harmful bacteria will begin to accumulate between the teeth and in the gums, eventually leading to gum disease. If untreated, gum disease can escalate to periodontal disease, an irreversible condition associated with serious pain, inflammation, and tooth and jawbone loss. To protect your health, reserve a couple of minutes each day to care for your gums.

2. Drink Plenty of Water & Watch Your Diet

Drinking sufficient amounts of water and consuming a well-rounded diet does not just benefit your blood pressure, body mass index, and heart; it also benefits your teeth. Consuming too many starch-laden and sugary foods contributes to tooth decay while failing to drink enough water can inhibit saliva production that neutralizes harmful acids in the mouth. Foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, cheese, and lean protein will help you maintain a healthy — and fresh smelling — oral environment.

3. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

You may be tempted to skip your annual teeth cleaning and checkup. However, doing so may lead to serious repercussions down the road. During your visit, your dentist can assess early signs of conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. By treating these issues in their earliest stages, you possess the best chance of successful treatment.

For a healthy, beautiful smile for life, look no further than Kailua Kona’s favorite family dentists. Since 2002, the team from West Hawaii Community Health Center has emphasized personalized, compassionate care for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment, call today at (808) 355-5600. For more information about this dentist’s office, visit the health center’s website.