Tooth enamel is one of the strongest substances in the body, but it is non-renewable. Therefore, it’s essential to the dental health of our Fargo patients to take good care of their teeth. Proper oral hygiene is the first step in protecting its enamel.
The first thing to mention is that most common device, the ordinary toothbrush. Even though every drug store carries hard bristle brushes, we recommend that you use a soft bristle brush. Use it after every meal to gently clean away food particles. It is ideal to brush immediately after eating, but brushing within 60 minutes of a meal has benefits. The quicker you remove food from your teeth, the better it is for your enamel.
When it comes to toothbrushes, the bristles are what’s important. Don’t think too much about the handle: just choose one that feels good in your hand.
Flossing regularly is also important for your dental health. Whether the food is on tooth surfaces or hidden in between, it is not doing your enamel any good.
Dennis Hetland recommends a checkup and extensive cleaning every six months. Our expert hygienists remove tartar, a substance that attracts plaque to the surface of the teeth and can weaken tooth structures. Regular checkups prevent issues and save you money on costly restorations down the road.
Remember: don’t use your teeth for opening packages! Keep scissors and bottle openers handy. At Designer Smiles, we see damaged teeth and dental work as a result of patients using their teeth as tools. Biting down on something too hard, like ice or hard candy can also impair enamel.
Teeth grinding is also a common dental issue. Grinding can not only wear away enamel, but also pave ways for cavities. If you grind your teeth while you are sleeping, ask us about a nightguard. Your enamel will thank you.
Lastly, remember: drink plenty water. Try to make it your beverage of choice! Coffee, sports drinks, soda, wine, and tea all contain a lot of acids and/or sugar. Cut back, or at least use a straw. These easily-avoided drinks cause a lot of tooth decay.
At Designer Smiles, we are concerned about the dental health of all our Fargo-area patients. We provide cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and general dentistry. For more more information or to set up an appointment, call our office today.
Contact Designer Smiles:
701-298-9400
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
3525 25th St S
Fargo, North Dakota
58104