Right now, many people in our communities are staying in when possible and practicing social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19. We applaud them, but also don’t want anyone to neglect their oral health during this time. In today’s blog, your El Paso, TX, dentists talk about what you can do to care for your smile at home.
Brushing Your Teeth Correctly
The most effective way to care for your smile is to brush and floss daily. When brushing your teeth, we suggest a soft-bristled toothbrush, to prevent inadvertent damage to enamel if you brush too hard. You also need a toothpaste that contains fluoride, a mineral that helps strengthen outer enamel and protect teeth from cavities. We suggest brushing your teeth for two minutes when you wake up and once again before going to bed. This is just as important for kids as adults, and you may need to assist or monitor your younger kids to make sure they clean their teeth properly. Children also benefit from fluoride toothpaste, just make sure they only use a rice-sized blot.
Flossing Your Smile
Flossing removes what a toothbrush’s bristles cannot reach and has been show to lower the risk of gingivitis and gum disease, as well as tooth decay. You should floss up and down each side of every tooth and reach under the gums in a “c” motion to remove trapped food particles. For kids, a floss pick could be easier to handle. Adults can use picks too, as well as floss tape or a water flosser.
Better Snack Options
When we consume foods and drinks high in sugar, this provides food particles for bacteria to break down. The process coats the teeth in plaque and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Instead of cakes, cookies, candy, and chips (which are high in starch, another ingredient that sticks to teeth), we suggest fresh fruits and veggies, low-fat yogurts, sugar-free gum, nuts, and cheeses. Remember that while delicious, dried fruit contains lots of sugar, but not the high water content usually found in fresh fruits that helps rinse away sugars. Try to drink more water instead of soda, energy drinks, sports drinks, or fruit juice. If you have any questions about how to properly brush and floss your teeth, or better snack options for kids and adults, then contact our team today. Remember, we’re still available to address serious concerns, such as dental emergencies!
SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO DISCUSSES HOMECARE
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, our team wants to make sure you and your family continues to care for your smile, even if you’re stuck at home. For more information on preventive treatments or to schedule your next consultation, contact our N. Zaragoza dental practice by calling 915-849-9000.