Today we wanted to talk about how to hang onto a great-looking, healthy smile at every stage of life. To that end, our team has compiled some tips for you to consider. When you are finished working through the list, be sure to call Dr. Martin and Smiles of Punta Gorda at 941-585-0424 to request your next preventive dentistry appointment in Punta Gorda, FL. That is one easy way to stay on track.
Take Care Of Your Teeth & Gums At Home
Your home hygiene routine is a big deal. However, it doesn’t just matter that you are brushing, flossing, and rinsing. It also matters how you are approaching these tasks. When brushing your teeth, for example, you need not go after it hard to remove all the plaque, food remnants, and bacteria. You see, brushing too hard will harm, not help, your teeth over time. You will want to be thorough but soft in your execution. The main reason is that too much force will remove your enamel right along with the plaque and could even injure your gums. Try a soft-bristled toothbrush and tread lightly.
Put A Stop To Grinding And Clenching
Teeth clenching and grinding is so bad for you and your smile. This involuntary habit could wear down your enamel, damage your gums, break your teeth, cause headaches and TMJ-related pain, and mess with the way that your teeth come together. Reducing daytime stress factors may help. But we can get you some relief with one of our custom-built mouthguards. These smile-saving dental devices prevent grinding and keep your jaw in a position that enables it to relax and heal. Be sure to ask Dr. Martin about the possibilities for such an appliance the next time you are here.
Don’t Use Teeth Inappropriately
Human teeth have a few basic purposes that greatly enrich our lives. They should never be utilized beyond that. Seriously. They are not designed to chew on pencils, chomp on ice, or cut fingernails. They can not take the place of scissors or other tools, especially a bottle opener. Your teeth are resilient, but not to be taken for granted. Using them in the wrong way could create a dental emergency for you in the future. Nobody wants to deal with that kind of trauma. It’s just not worth it.
Leave Tobacco Behind
By now we all should know that smoking cigarettes, and using other tobacco products, is really bad for you. This applies to your smile as well. Tobacco turns your teeth yellow over time, inhibits your sense of taste, and wrecks your breath. Plus, habitual smokers often have more substantial amounts of plaque and tartar on their teeth. And your chances of developing gum disease greatly increase when you smoke. Tobacco users also need more time to heal from extractions and other oral surgical procedures. But the number one reason to leave it all behind is the prospect of getting oral cancer, a silent killer in many cases. SInce April is oral cancer awareness month, this is the perfect time to quit your bad habits!
Get The Dentistry You Need
If you have been inspired to take the next step toward a healthier smile, call Dr. Martin and Smiles of Punta Gorda today at 941-585-0424 to request your next easy appointment in Punta Gorda, FL. Together we can take your teeth and gums to the next level, and keep them there throughout your life. We can’t wait to get started!
