Do you question whether your oral hygiene techniques are correct or not? While many people think they are taking good care of their teeth and gums, it’s easy to make small mistakes that cost you in the long run. The Dental Clinic of Stuttgart has helped residents of Arkansas County, AR, maintain healthy smiles for over 15 years. Below, the dentists outline the top do’s & don’ts when it comes to your mouth. 

4 Dental Care Do’s

Pay Close Attention to Your Dental Care

When it comes to your dental health, you’re probably aware of when something doesn’t feel right. Whether it’s gum abnormalities or tooth pain, listen to the cues your body is giving you. Schedule a visit to your dentist immediately if something feels off-kilter. 

Brush Your Tongue

This may seem like an odd habit, but brushing your tongue along with your teeth will rid your mouth of additional bacteria and improve your breath. Most toothbrushes come with a handy tongue scraper on the back of the head to make it easy.

Floss in Between Brushing

While brushing regularly prevents gum disease and tooth decay, floss reaches those hard-to-get pieces of food the toothbrush can’t. This necessary step will limit plaque buildup around the gum lines. 

Schedule Regular Checkups

Scheduling biannual or quarterly visits with your dentist will prevent any major tooth decay from happening before it’s too late. Using advanced dental tools, they can remove tough plaque buildup that your toothbrush can’t. They’ll also check for and treat gum disease.

4 Dental Care Don’ts

Eat Too Many Sugary or Sticky Foods

Sticky and sugary foods, such as candy, adhere to your enamel, making them hard to rinse or brush away. These types of food are a major cause of tooth decay and frequently cause cavities to occur.

Overlook Your Visits to the Dentist

If you’re not on a regular checkup schedule, it’s easy to forget about or avoid going to the dentist. However, if you don’t receive routine care from a dental provider, what might be a small issue within your teeth or gums can grow into a larger problem if not addressed. 

Fall Asleep Without Brushing Your Teeth

When you’re tired and can’t wait to hit the hay, it’s easy to put off brushing your teeth. However, bacteria can build up if left overnight. While you’re sleeping, your body doesn’t produce as much saliva, which is crucial for neutralizing and washing away bacteria.

Eat Acidic Foods

Acidic foods, such as oranges, lemons, coffee, and wine, can eat away at the enamel on your teeth. They can also cause sensitivity and discoloration over time. While it’s fine to enjoy these foods periodically, make sure you drink water with them or brush your teeth afterward to wash away the acids.

Finding a trusted partner in your dental care will create a lifetime of good habits. The staff at The Dental Clinic at Stuttgart is committed to keeping your smile beautiful and healthy. They strive to create a comfortable, welcoming environment that makes you look forward to your visits to the dentist instead of dreading them. Call them today at (870) 551-3836 to make an appointment, or browse their website for more information.