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Good oral health is important for more than just your smile. Here are some reasons provided by Cascade Dental Group LLC why good oral health is important.

• Your smile affects your self-confidence.
• Good oral health helps you avoid disease.
• Good oral health helps you avoid problems with bad breath.
• Good oral health helps you avoid issues with pain.

Here are a few tips for maintaining good oral health: 

• Brushing and Flossing

The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice per day for two minutes each time with fluoride toothpaste. However, it’s also important to brush gently and not press too hard. Flossing should also be done at least once per day to remove plaque and bacteria from the areas in between the teeth. Flossing your teeth helps remove plaque and food debris from areas of the mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach. Brushing and flossing, thus, reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

• Regular Dental Visits And Dental Cleanings

Visiting the dentist in Salem, OR, regularly is the very best way to maintain your best smile. The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist every six months. For some people, this may even need to be more frequent. Not only does this give our dentist in 97302 the chance to catch problems early, but it also gives you the chance to talk with our dentist in Salem, OR, about any concerns you have with your smile. The dentist will also recommend ways to keep your teeth as healthy as possible.

Regularly scheduled dental cleanings are also essential to maintaining your overall oral health. Dental cleanings are more intensive than at-home tooth brushing. During your dental cleaning, we will remove more plaque and tartar buildup that brushing can. Cleanings also help decrease the bacteria in the mouth that cause gum disease. Contact us to learn more!

• Mouthwash

Mouthwash is important for good oral hygiene, and it’s the first line of defense against gum disease. A fluoride mouthwash, for example, can help prevent tooth decay, and a daily mouthwash can also freshen your breath. If you have specific oral concerns, such as sensitivity or dry mouth, ask your dentist which mouthwash is best for you.

• Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel to help prevent tooth decay. You can get topical fluoride treatments at the dental office and in certain types of toothpaste and mouthwash. If your drinking water does not have fluoride, you may also be at risk of tooth decay. The dentist may recommend fluoride supplements for children or adults who are at risk of tooth decay.

• Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol use significantly reduces saliva production, which can result in an overgrowth of bacteria and tooth decay. So, avoid or limit the intake of alcohol. 

• Quit Smoking

There are multiple reasons why smoking is terrible for your teeth. One reason is that it causes bad breath. Smoking also causes teeth to get discolored and stained. Smokers are more likely to have gum disease, so quitting smoking will be good for your teeth and gums.

• Reduce Sugary And Acidic Foods In Your Diet

Many types of food can cause tooth decay. Simple carbohydrates like candy can cause tooth decay because they feed the bacteria in your mouth. When these bacteria feed on the sugars, they create an acidic byproduct that wears down tooth enamel. Try to limit sugary foods and drinks, and avoid snacking throughout the day.

Conclusion

Incorporating these best practices into your daily routine can help you achieve a healthier smile and maintain optimal oral hygiene. By prioritizing your oral health and following these tips, you can keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come. So, don't wait any longer – start implementing these habits today for a happier, healthier mouth!

If you want to learn more about us, feel free to contact our dental office today to schedule an appointment with our dentist in Salem, OR. Our doctors and team are always here to help your smile stay healthy!