Good dental health not only helps prevent future oral health problems but also brightens and freshens up the teeth and gums. Maintaining your smile at home and visiting the dentist biannually are important parts of oral health. Our dental office wants patients to learn the best ways to enhance their oral health at home and in our Annapolis, MD, dental office. Read FAQs about dental health and learn how to improve your smile today.
Oral Health in Annapolis, MD
Answers to frequently asked questions about oral health:
What is the best method to brush my teeth?
Begin brushing at a 45-degree angle on the outside of the teeth near the gum line. Brush over the teeth and gums gently. If you own a manual toothbrush, you can rotate the brush in circular motions. After you brush the outside portion of your teeth, brush the chewing surfaces, then the back of the teeth. Electric toothbrushes already rotate the brush, so you will not need to use circular motions.
How should I brush my gums?
Gently brush your gums when you brush your teeth. You can also use circular motions when brushing your gums. Do not brush aggressively, as brushing this way can lead to bleeding gums and even recession over time.
How do vitamins and minerals affect my oral health?
Vitamin C, Vitamin A, calcium, and phosphorus are common vitamins and minerals that help strengthen teeth. Ingesting Vitamin C and calcium helps keep the teeth and gums strong. Vitamin A can help fight problems like tooth decay and gum disease, minimizing acids that wear and break down bone and gum tissue. Phosphorus helps the body absorb calcium to prevent demineralization and strengthen the tooth enamel.
How can I improve my oral health?
Brushing and flossing daily, visiting the dentist twice a year, and avoiding excessive sugar or tobacco use can help improve the appearance and health of the smile. Caring for your oral health at home and visiting our office for dental cleanings can prevent bacterial buildup on the teeth and gums. Hydrating properly and limiting sugar intake can also prevent problems like decay, as bacteria feed on sugars and starch left in the mouth. Cigarettes, vaping, and other products that contain tobacco can slow the body’s immune response and contribute to tooth stains and bad breath.
How is oral health connected to your overall health?
An increase in harmful bacteria in the mouth can lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Patients who develop gum disease can also be more at risk of diabetes, stroke, heart attack, and other heart issues. This is because harmful bacteria can spread through the bloodstream. Patients with bone health problems like osteoporosis may also notice changes in the strength of their enamel and may require restorative dental care. It is important to note changes in your health and receive care as soon as possible.
Call Dr. Vernon Sheen and his team today at (443) 482-5202 or request a dental consultation on our website. If you have any further questions about dental health, please let us know, and we can help!