If your dentist could ask for a gift this holiday season, the chances that it would be to receive a smiling tooth that serves as a paperweight are slim. Instead, they would probably tell you that the best gift you could give would be to have a healthy, glowing smile this year. When you arrive for your checkup with a cavity-free smile, this not only makes life easier for you, but it also ensures your dentist that you’re taking care of your dental health. To make sure you’re staying on top of your oral hygiene and keeping cavities away, here are a few tips to help.
Make an Appointment
Depending on your policy, it is likely that you have two annual visits that are covered at 100% by your dental insurance plan. These are meant to be spread out every six months and allow your dentist to check your smile for any potential problems as well as remove any hardened plaque or tartar around the gum line. These preventive services are a great way to keep problems from developing as well as keep more money in your pocket for holiday shopping!
Avoid Eating Too Much Sugar
Sugar is a cavity’s best friend. When consuming too much of it, it can lead to bacteria breeding and spreading on your teeth and gums, eventually, burrowing down deep into the tooth enamel and creating a small hole. Known as a cavity, this can be filled if caught early enough; however, if allowed to grow larger, it may be necessary to not only fill and seal the tooth but also place a dental crown to keep it intact. Whenever possible, seek alternatives that are sugar-free.
Drink Plenty of Water
If you want to make sure anything that could potentially harm your teeth and lead to cavities is quickly removed from your mouth, simply drink water. When you consume a glass of water with your meal, you’re encouraging your salivary glands to continue working at an optimal pace, and you’re helping to flush out any bacteria or food particles that can become lodged in-between teeth or stuck to their chewing surfaces.
Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Regime
If you combine a good oral hygiene routine with twice a year dental visits, you are putting yourself on a path to oral health success. Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, flossing at least once a day, and rinsing with an ADA-approved mouthwash will easily remove harmful bacteria and stuck-on food from your teeth and gums, leaving you with a refreshing, healthy smile.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be setting yourself up for a great holiday season. Yes, you can enjoy some of the sweeter things this time of year brings but be mindful of how much and what you should do to quickly remove sugar, starch, and any acidic foods or beverages from your teeth. Not only will you have a cavity-free smile, but your dentist will be thrilled when you arrive for your next visit.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Nawrocki received his bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida (UF) in 2004. Four years later, he achieved his doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Completing a residency in general dentistry at the Bay Pines VAMC, he earned a certificate for Advanced Education in General Dentistry. A firm believer in the benefits of preventive care, Dr. Nawrocki encourages all his patients to receive regular dental checkups and cleanings twice a year, as it is one of the most effective ways to stay cavity-free, especially during the holidays. To learn more, visit our website or call (386) 677-1046.