What Are Healthy Habits for Long-Term Healthy Smiles?

At Avalon Dental Care, we are advocates of prevention to help our valued patients maintain long-term healthy and beautiful smiles. We are pleased to offer a comprehensive range of preventative dentistry services to lower your risk of dental disease. Our team has also put together a guide outlining essential habits that support long-term dental health, helping you maintain a vibrant smile at every stage of life.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Make sure to brush your teeth gently at least twice daily to remove plaque and food debris from your teeth and gum line. It’s also important to floss daily to clean those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth and along the gum line. If not removed, plaque can gradually harden into tartar, which can only be removed with the help of professional dental tools. Regular brushing and flossing can significantly lower your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. 

Use Mouthwash

Adding mouthwash to your daily oral hygiene routine can help keep your mouth clean and your teeth and gums healthy. There are many different mouthwash varieties, so it’s important to consult your trusted team at Avalon Dental Care to determine the one right for you. Make sure you swish daily to supplement your brushing and flossing routine. 

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Maintain a healthy, balanced diet to ensure your teeth and gums have the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Limit treats high in sugars and carbs, which provide an ample food supply for cavity-causing bacteria to thrive. Instead, snack on crunchy fruits and veggies, which not only have essential nutrients but also act like natural toothbrushes, cleaning off plaque and stimulating blood flow in the gums. 

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps support saliva production, which helps prevent dry mouth, enhancing your oral health. Water also helps flush away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities. It’s especially important to drink water after meals to wash away debris and to neutralize acids in your mouth, reducing your risk of dental disease. 

Wear a ProtectiveNight Guard or Sports Mouthguard

Teeth grinding and clenching in your sleep can leave you at risk for uneven tooth wear or fracture, morning headaches, and even TMJ pain. A custom night guard can prevent the grinding and clenching forces from wreaking havoc on your smile. Moreover, if you are involved in high-impact or contact sports, we recommend wearing a sports mouthguard to safeguard your smile and lower the risk of sports-related dental injuries. 

See Your Dentist at Least Twice a Year

Preventative dental care is key to maintaining long-term healthy smiles. Regular exams allow us to diagnose and uncover problems in their earliest stages, preventing them from needing complex treatments down the road. Regular dental cleanings are just as important because they help remove plaque and tartar buildup, lowering the risk of cavities, periodontal (gum) disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems. They also help remove surface tooth stains, leaving you with a brighter, whiter smile. 

Preventative Dental Care Near Me in Lomita, CA

If you would like to learn more about maintaining a healthy smile, contact Avalon Dental Care to schedule a consultation. Our patient-centered team is happy to offer personalized tips and guidance to lower your risk of dental disease. We strive to lay the foundation for healthy smiles that last a lifetime. We invite you to call 310-530-3100 to schedule an appointment or book your visit online today!