How you care for your teeth over the years will make a major impact on your oral health down the road. To prevent serious issues later in life, many medical professionals emphasize preventive dental care, which involves taking measures today to prevent the risk of illness and disease in the future. To ensure you maintain a healthy, bright smile for decades to come, be sure to abide by these key oral care tips.

Do:

Brush & floss daily.

Brushing and flossing consistently today can help stave off a range of issues, from decay to cavities and even tooth loss. When you floss at least once a day, you can significantly reduce your risk of gum disease, which can lead to pain, inflammation, and even tooth and jawbone deterioration. It only takes a few minutes per day to protect your health.

Investigate your family’s dental history.

Your immediate family’s oral health history can reveal key insights about your personal risk factors. If your parents suffered from issues like periodontal disease or tooth loss, you possess a higher risk of such conditions. Take time to look into your family history and notify your dentist of any relevant conditions. By taking action today, you can avoid a similar fate.

Don’t:

Drink too many acidic beverages. 

Drinking acidic beverages like lemonade, fruit juices, coffee creamers, and even low-calorie sodas can contribute to tooth decay. Acids weaken enamel, making the teeth more vulnerable to cavities and the gums prone to inflammation. Acids can also make the teeth more sensitive, so try to avoid them as often as possible.  

Consume too many sugary, starchy treats.

From cookies and candies to chips, pretzels, and other starchy treats, there is a range of foods that likewise contribute to tooth decay. Starches turn to sugar in the mouth, which feeds the bacteria that eat away at the tooth’s enamel. For the sake of your oral and overall health, try to swap sweet treats for fruits and vegetables.

If you would like to maintain a bright, healthy smile for life, look no further than Rochester, New York’s premier family dentists. The team from Drs Emery & Scuro DMD, PC, provide the preventive dental care services patients of all ages deserve. To learn more about the dental office, visit the website. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call today at (585) 247-7110.