Without strong dental care practices, you could experience a variety of issues that impact the look and strength of your teeth. Fortunately, it only takes a few simple steps to avoid costly visits the dentist for emergency or cosmetic care. Providing comprehensive oral health services in Lincoln, NE, Cherry Hill Dentistry highlights some of the most important ways to protect your smile, as well as habits you should avoid.

Do:

Defend against oral bacteria. 

Regular oral hygiene is essential to keep cavity-causing oral bacteria to a minimum. A proper routine should include thorough twice-daily brushing and flossing, as well as the use of antibacterial mouthwash.

Drink water & milk.

Since many drinks—such as fruit juice, carbonated beverages, and soda—can be detrimental to teeth, its best to stick to water and milk as much as possible. In addition to rinsing away bacteria and food particles, tap water contains fluoride that helps support strong teeth. Milk, on the other hand, provides calcium to strengthen teeth.

See a dentist every six months. 

No matter how much you brush or floss, your teeth will still develop plaque—a bacteria-rich, colorless film that covers enamel. Since at-home care can’t remove plaque, it’s important to visit your dentist every six months for a complete checkup and teeth cleaning.

Don’t:

Consume excessive sugar. 

Sugar is detrimental to teeth because it fuels the oral bacteria that cause cavities. To limit your risk of tooth decay, reduce your intake of sugary products, such as candy and sugar. Since carbohydrates are a type of sugar, it’s also critical to brush and floss completely to keep starchy and sticky foods from clinging to teeth.

Rush the brush.

To get all the benefits of tooth brushing, it’s essential to brush for at least two minutes twice a day. If you feel that you’re rushing through the process, bring a timer with you to the bathroom.

Smoke.

In addition to a variety of other health risks, tobacco use can cause many different types of oral health problems. For example, smoking cigarettes is known to increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. If you smoke, finding a way to quit can save your mouth from these dangers.

Whether you’re due for a routine oral exam or need a tooth extraction to relieve pain, Cherry Hill Dentistry is one provider that can help optimize your oral health. This Lincoln, NE, dental clinic is led by Dr. Tanya Powell—an experienced dentist that is equipped to provide general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency care. Focused on client satisfaction, this team does more than simply protect teeth—they work to make sure every patient receives personalized treatment within a comfortable and welcoming environment. To learn more about these services, visit this dental office online. For appointments, call a friendly staff member at (402) 488-2383.