Are you someone who is always keen on following good oral care habits? Do you always wish to have a healthy smile and good-looking teeth? There are a variety of things you can do at home to protect your teeth and improve your oral health. Here are they:

• Brush and floss your teeth Regularly

Brush and floss your teeth daily to remove food particles and plaque and to reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. You should also use fluoride toothpaste to help strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay.

• Get regular checkups

Regular checkups are key to having a healthy smile. The American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups. When you keep up with your cleanings and checkups, you can prevent many oral health issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease. In addition to preventing dental problems, checkups can also identify problems before they worsen. As a result, you’ll spend less money on dental care and have fewer dental visits.

• Wear a custom fitted mouthguard

Custom-fitted mouthguards offer the best protection available against an oral injury. If you participate in a sport or activity where you could be hit in the mouth, wear a mouthguard.

If you have a history of grinding your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard to prevent further wear.

• Avoid nail biting

Nail biting can lead to cracked, chipped, or misaligned teeth. Biting nails can also be indicative of stress, anxiety, or nervousness. Nail biting can increase your risk of cavities and damaged enamel. Nail biting can also wear down the teeth at the corners of the mouth. This can cause chipped teeth.

• Don’t smoke

Smoking can negatively affect more than just your lungs. In addition to increasing your risk for cancer, heart disease, and stroke, smoking can also increase your risk for gum disease.

Smoking affects circulation in the mouth. Blood carries oxygen throughout the body. When plaque builds up on your teeth, it releases toxins that irritate your gums. Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that blood can carry, meaning that your gums won’t have as much oxygen to fight the buildup of plaque.

• Replace your toothbrush every three months

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three months. The ADA also recommends replacing your toothbrush after you have been sick.

It is also recommended that you replace your toothbrush immediately if you notice it is worn, frayed, or doesn’t look and work as it should.

• Avoid sugary and sticky foods

Sticky, sugary foods stick to your teeth and can cause decay. They also increase your risk of cavities. Try to limit sugary foods to meal times and brush your teeth after consuming them.

You should also avoid chewy or hard candies, as well as dried fruits, which can get stuck in your molars. While dried fruits are healthy, they can cause damage to your enamel.

• Use mouthwash carefully

Mouthwash can freshen your breath, but it shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing. Mouthwash is effective at removing food particles and neutralizing bad odors, but it won’t remove plaque or tartar buildup. It also won’t remove stains or whiten your teeth.

To learn more about good oral care habits, please reach out to the dental office located in San Mateo, CA 94401 at (650) 342-8618, and we’ll be happy to help.