Sometimes we suffer from accidents or dental trauma that radically damage our smiles in a short period of time. More frequently, however, dental damage accumulates and compounds over time; we may not notice that our teeth are subtly changing until the damage has become severe.
Today our Saint Louis dentists are sharing some tips and suggestions on how to care for your smile and minimize your risk of dealing with dental damage in the future. Let’s get started.
The number one thing you can do is to follow all of your dentist’s recommendations regarding at-home and in-office dental care. Plaque and tartar will wreak havoc on your smile if left unchecked.
Next, you want to make sure that you are staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water every day. When you are well-hydrated, your body is able to produce enough of saliva, and saliva is your body’s natural way of combating bacteria and re-mineralizing enamel. In the same vein, seek treatment for dry mouth if necessary, as chronic dry mouth increases your risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Here’s a quick tip: try getting into the habit of rinsing your mouth with water after you eat or drink anything other than water. Not only does rinsing your mouth jump-start saliva production, it also helps to clear away the dental debris and food particles on which oral bacteria feed.
When you do get something stuck between your teeth—it happens to all of us—do not use sharp wooden or metal instruments to pick at your smile. Rather, clean between your teeth using gentle and effective floss. Picking at your smile can damage your oral tissues and cause micro-cracks in your enamel.
Our Saint Louis dentists are happy to provide you with any additional information and guidance that you may need. You can always call our office to speak to a member of our staff, or use the Contact Us page on our site to submit a question and we’ll be happy to get back to you.