Good oral hygiene, seeing your dentist regularly, and staying vigilant about your mouth health will allow you to have the best oral health. Your at-home dental care routine is the single most important part of your oral health, but so is seeing the dentist and maintaining a healthy diet.
Dr. Don Alexander is a Jacksonville, FL dentist who offers complete dental care to patients of all ages. There are several steps you can take to ensure you have the best oral health.
The Best At-Home Regimen For Healthy Teeth Includes:
Brush your teeth twice a day
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with an American Dental Association (ADA)-approved toothpaste and toothbrush. Make sure both the toothpaste and toothbrush are ADA approved so you don’t do any damage to your teeth. Brushing your teeth prevents buildup of oral bacteria and hardening of plaque.
Floss every day
Flossing allows you to remove plaque from between teeth and beneath the gum line. This actually disrupts bacterial colonies, preventing them from building up and damaging the teeth.
Rinse After Eating
Rinsing is also an important part of oral health. Rinsing your mouth with water between meals can help protect your teeth against build-ups. Adding a mouthwash to your daily routine will help protect against gum disease by killing bacteria and reducing gingivitis.
When should I begin to visit a dentist?
Most dentists, including Dr. Alexander, recommend children visit the dentist starting with their first tooth or their first birthday, whichever comes first. This acclimates them to the dentist’s office with an age-appropriate cleaning. We’ll give you tips to care for your child’s developing teeth and help them feel comfortable with dental care.
Visiting the dentist with your child allows parents and caregivers the opportunity to demonstrate healthy habits. Children who visit the dentist with a parent who is also coming for dental care helps reduce anxiety and set a solid foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.
Schedule an Appointment
Dr. Alexander offers comprehensive dental care to people of all ages. Contact our Jacksonville, FL dental office online or by phone at 904.372.8157 today.