Why Healthy Teeth are Important
Make sure to brush your teeth on a regular basis. Your teeth are important in many ways. If you take care of them, they will help take care of you. Strong, healthy teeth help you chew the right foods to help you grow. They help you speak clearly. Taking care of your teeth helps prevent plaque, which is a clear film of bacteria that sticks to your teeth.
After you eat, bacteria will be attracted to the sugar on your teeth. The bacteria break it down into acids that eat away tooth enamel, causing holes called cavities. Plaque also causes gingivitis, which is gum disease that can make your gums red, swollen, and sore. Your gums are those soft pink tissues in your mouth that hold your teeth in place. If you do not take care of your teeth, cavities and unhealthy gums will make your mouth sore.
Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Kids can take charge of their teeth by taking these steps:
Brush at least twice a day — after breakfast and before bedtime. If you can, brush after lunch or after sweet snacks. Brushing properly breaks down plaque.
Brush all of your teeth, not just the front ones. Spend some time on the teeth along the sides and in the back.
Take your time while brushing. Spend at least two minutes each time you brush.
Be sure your toothbrush has soft bristles and get a new toothbrush every three months. Some toothbrushes come with bristles that change color when it is time to change them.
Learn how to floss your teeth, which is a very important way to keep them healthy. Slip the dental floss between each tooth and along the gum line gently once a day. The floss gets rid of food that is hidden where your toothbrush cannot get it, no matter how well you brush.
You can also brush your tongue to help keep your breath fresh!
It is also important to visit us twice a year. Besides checking for signs of cavities or gum disease, we will help keep your teeth clean and can help you learn the best way to brush and floss.