Sciota, Pennsylvania
Whether you’ve had a knockout smile your entire life or recently transformed your grin, you want to take immaculate care of the asset that people first notice about you. That’s why our cosmetic dentist in Sciota compiled the following tips to help you achieve and maintain your gorgeous pearly whites:
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Brush and floss regularly
The cornerstone of any healthy oral hygiene regimen is brushing and flossing. These two simple acts drastically reduce your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. Our Sciota family dentist recommends that you brush twice a day — once after breakfast and once before bed — and floss once daily. Some people stop short of flossing every day, but this means a sizable portion of your mouth — specifically, between the teeth — could harbor harmful bacteria that lead to plaque and tartar buildup and then eventually to tooth decay and gum disease.
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Opt for a fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has properties that remineralize soft spots on the teeth to strengthen them and prevent cavities. Our family dentist in Sciota recommends brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste with the seal of approval from the American Dental Association.
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Limit staining foods and beverages
Some of the foods and drinks we enjoy — coffee, tea, dark sodas, red wine, tomato-based sauces, chocolate and dark berries, for instance — can cause tooth staining. It isn’t realistic to think that these foods could or should be eliminated from your diet entirely, but we recommend consuming them in moderation. When you enjoy any food or drink that is known to cause tooth discoloration, be sure to rinse your mouth with water afterward. It can also help to use a straw to minimize any exposure of staining liquid to the teeth. If your teeth are already dingy or yellow, contact our Sciota cosmetic dentist about simple and affordable professional tooth whitening procedures to restore your smile’s brilliance.
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Hydrate
Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria that contribute to plaque buildup in the mouth. Staying hydrated also promotes saliva production, which is important because saliva neutralizes acids, helps remineralize enamel and prevents dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath and an increased risk of cavity development. Always opt for water throughout the day over sugar-heavy drinks. If you have a hard time drinking water, try adding citrus fruit or berries to brighten the flavor and add health benefits.
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Schedule regular dental checkups
Visits to our office twice a year help to keep your teeth and smile in tip-top shape. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup between teeth and under the gumline, where regular brushing and flossing can’t always reach. These biannual exams also allow our Sciota dentist to examine your teeth to catch potential issues early, before they become bigger dental problems down the road. We want to see your smiling face in our office every six months.
Family and cosmetic dentistry in Sciota, PA
Follow these five tips to maintain your healthy and radiant smile. If it’s time for your routine dental appointment, or if you have concerns or questions about your oral health, call our Quiet Valley Dental team at (570) 865-7850, or reach out to us online to schedule an appointment today.
