A happy and healthy mouth is about so much more than a pleasant smile and attractive appearance.

In fact, the state of your teeth and gums can also affect your overall health. Therefore, it’s vital that you are aware of as much advice as possible when it comes to dental care. This article can help you see what it takes to maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Caring for your teeth and gums

It’s important to learn as much as you can about local dentists, especially if you fear the dentist. Look at reviews on the Internet to find a dentist with an upbeat bedside manner. This helps you to feel comfortable throughout your cleaning and other dental procedures.

To get your teeth their cleanest, choose a toothbrush with soft bristles and make sure that it is the right size to fit into your mouth. Additionally, allow your toothbrush to air dry after use to help prohibit the growth of bacteria. Place it in a holder where the brush is not touching anything.

Avoid eating too many high-sugar foods.

The sugar and acid can do lots of damage to your teeth, even if you brush regularly. It can be helpful to drink teeth-staining drinks with a straw, in order to bypass your teeth completely. You also need to get your teeth brushed right after eating so you don’t damage your teeth.

When visiting the dentist for a procedure, if you get anxious, learn relaxation methods, like deep breathing. When using one or several techniques, you should not only do them during your appointment. You should also do them before and after it. This will make the process a whole lot easier.

Cavities, which are also called dental caries, are the result of weakened tooth enamel. Bacteria from food debris eat through the teeth, which causes cavities. You should get your teeth inspected and cleaned by a dentist twice a year to prevent cavities. Your dentist will also x-ray your teeth to make sure cavities aren’t forming. If you are due for a dental visit call Lakeside Family Dentistry in Anderson, SC at (864) 305-1402 to make an appointment.

Brush your teeth after each meal.

Allowing plaque to build up can cause a lot of problems. You can reduce plaque damage by brushing within 30 minutes of eating. It will also help reduce your chances of suffering from painful toothaches.

If you have bad breath and a dry mouth, it may be a side effect of a prescription medication. This problem is beyond bad breath, however, as you need saliva to protect you from rapid tooth decay. Ask your doctor if your prescription medication might be causing dry mouth. If it is, then you might need to switch medications if possible. If this is not a viable option, ask your dentist for other options.

Whenever you are brushing, make sure you aren’t neglecting your back teeth.

It’s easy to only stick with the teeth that you’re able to see in a mirror, but your teeth will start to decay if they don’t get any attention paid to them. Always take care to devote just as much time brushing your back teeth as you do your front teeth.

A clean mouth is not only about appearance, but it is also a way to stay healthy.

Dr. Miller and the team at Lakeside Family Dentistry is here to support your family’s dental health, give us a call at (864) 305-1402 to schedule an appointment today!