Gilbert E. Tresley, MD

Improper care of your teeth is linked to maladies such as gingivitis, halitosis, and even deadly infections. Like most people, you've probably learned since childhood that brushing and flossing must be performed multiple times daily. Despite this, so many people struggle with cavities, gum disease, and weakened enamel. Fortunately, there is much you can do to promote a bright, healthy smile.


Don't wait to see a dentist. If you've started feeling even the slightest bit of pain in your teeth, make an appointment with a dentist. If you wait too long the problem could get even worse. If you get in right away, you may only need a quick and easy treatment.


If you are. A person who grinds your teeth at night, consider Botox injections. One dentists use a small amount of Botox injected into the jaw to relax the muscles and bring a stop to stress related grinding. Wile this method is usually effective, it will need to be repeated about once every three months.


Make sure that the toothpaste you use contains fluoride. While there are natural toothpastes available that do not list this as an ingredient, they do not provide the level of protection fluoride does. You have a much higher chance of developing dental issues if you use one of these brands.


You should go to your dentist if you bleed a lot when you brush your teeth. Bleeding gums are caused by gum disease as well as hard toothbrushes. If the bleeding does not stop after switching to a softer toothbrush, make sure to see your dentist.


It can be quite uncomfortable to be intimately engaged in a conversation with someone who has horrible breath. Maybe it is something they ate, or just plain old bad dental care habits. Whatever the case may be, a good way to help yourself out of this situation is to carry around gum or mints. Have one yourself and offer them one at the same time. This makes a polite gesture a successful covert operation.


Do you tend to grind your teeth? Do your best to get rid of this habit. Avoid eating hard foods, chew some gum and relax as much as you can. If you grind your teeth at night, it is best to wear a mouth guard until this bad habit goes away.


When trying to choose a toothpaste to brush with, make sure that it contains fluoride. Fluoride contains many properties beneficial to dental care. It can strengthen your enamel, and reduces the acidity of your mouth. It has also been shown to be extremely resistant to tooth decay so make sure you use this stuff.


Floss your teeth with a quality floss at least once each day. Food gets stuck in between your teeth and no matter how well you brush your teeth you can not get it all out. Use floss to get into those hard to reach places to ensure that the food does not create cavities in your teeth.


Limit your intake of sugary drinks and foods. Sugar is one of the biggest causes of cavities. This is because the sugar is food for the bacteria that can eat away at your teeth. If you do decide to consume a sugary treat, you should wash it down with a glass of milk, water or brush your teeth afterward to prevent negative repercussions.


Make your dentist, orthodontist, and periodontist proud by taking your oral hygiene regimen to the next level. Although it is undeniably empowering to have an attractive smile, you must remember that dental health goes beyond cosmetic matters. With the insights from this article, you can work toward healthier teeth and gums.