How to Ramp Up Your Dental Health

Summer is over, so you are likely getting back into your normal routine. We have found that patients are often less likely in the summer to keep their oral habits in place. Follow these easy tips from our Vassey Dental Partners team to get your dental health back on track.

• Cut Back on the Sugar—Summertime and sugar go hand in hand. From ice cream parties by the pool to energy drinks and sodas, we can get in the habit of overloading with sugar. Too much sugar is unhealthy for your entire body, including your teeth. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 24 grams of sugar for women and 36 grams of sugar for men per day. For perspective, one can of soda exceeds the recommendation for men and women. When you have too many sugary sweets, the buildup on your teeth can allow for the tooth enamel to be eaten away and the vulnerable core of your teeth to be exposed. When you choose to consume something sugary, make sure to brush your teeth afterward.
• Brush and Floss your Teeth Properly—According to the American Dental Association, you should be brushing your teeth for two minutes twice per day and floss at least once. Ideally, you should be brushing after eating or drinking. The longer food and drinks sit on your teeth, the more likely your teeth will be damaged. If you are not already following this dental habit, establish it right away. Also, make sure to brush your tongue as bacteria can hide there. Adding mouthwash could be an added boost of freshness, too.
• Prioritize a Health Routine—Eating a moderate diet and exercising regularly are important for your total health. Your teeth will benefit from your commitment to overall wellness. Stronger teeth come from a healthy balanced diet with plenty of calcium.
• Keep up with your Visits to Vassey Dental Partners—Make your professional cleanings a priority every six months. During your cleaning, we can offer guidance and tweak your at-home regimen. Also, we can look out for signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gingivitis, and oral cancer. Early detection of a dental issue will help us treat the problem more effectively.

If you need to schedule your cleaning, give us a call at Vassey Dental Partners. We want to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile year-round.