Dr. Trevor Williams of Brandon, Florida works regularly with patients who want to enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for life. With routine visits, patients have the opportunity to catch problems at an early point. At Williams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we understand that oral health habits go further than just the dental office, and most of the work is done by the patient at home. If you are interested in learning more about proper oral hygiene, keep reading!
How do I keep my teeth clean?
Maintaining a healthy smile is a smart way to keep problems such as cavities, periodontal disease, and infections from occurring within the oral cavity. Dr. Trevor Williams educates patients on good hygiene habits, including:
- Brushing teeth. With a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, patients should brush their teeth and gums after every meal. Do not forget to brush the tongue as well, which can harbor bacteria.
- Flossing teeth. Food particles can become trapped between teeth and contribute to the formation of cavities and periodontal disease. By flossing the teeth after each meal, these food particles can be dislodged.
- Visiting the dentist regularly. Patients should visit their dentist twice a year for a cleaning and evaluation. This is the same recommendations as the American Dental Association and is strongly encouraged.
- Call the dentist when problems occur. Instead of waiting for your next appointment, take charge of your oral health when situations arise. If you are experiencing bleeding gums, trauma to the mouth, or a toothache, seek assistance from a dental professional as soon as possible.
- Eat a nutritious diet. Foods high in acid and sugar can be detrimental to the health of the smile. If you do consume these foods and beverages, it is important to brush and floss the teeth immediately to reduce the risk of cavities.
Schedule your consultation appointment with Dr. Trevor Williams today!
Brandon, FL area patients can call Williams Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at (813) 560-0447 to request an appointment and enjoy an education on how to care for the smile between routine visits. The office is located at 510 Vonderburg Drive in Ste. 211 and accepts new patients in the community and surrounding cities, including Tampa, FL.
FAQs
How often should I brush my teeth and gums?
Ideally, after every meal. If this is not possible, rinse your mouth well after meals, but you must brush your teeth and gums twice a day.
Should I brush my tongue too, as part of my oral hygiene routine?
The tongue is a breeding ground for a variety of bacteria. If they are not removed regularly, they can cause many oral health problems. It can also lead to bad breath (halitosis).
What role does flossing play in my dental routine?
Flossing is essential to remove food particles that get trapped between teeth. If allowed to remain in the mouth, these particles can lead to the formation of cavities and periodontal disease.
How often should I visit the dentist for a cleaning and evaluation?
Twice a year or once every six months. If a sudden dental problem, such as a toothache, bleeding gums, or trauma to the teeth, crops up, visit the dentist as soon as possible without waiting for your next dental appointment.
What should I eat and drink to maintain good oral health?
Dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and nuts should be musts in your diet. Milk, cheese, and yogurt; salmon and lean meat; spinach, carrots, and celery; apples; almonds; black or green tea; and water are some of the best options for great oral health.