Taking care of your teeth is about more than just having a gorgeous smile. Did you know that your dental health is closely linked to your overall health? Plaque in your mouth can cause inflammation and infection throughout your body—all the more reason to keep your pearly whites in great shape. Along with visiting a top dentist for a thorough exam and cleaning twice a year, make the following tasks part of your everyday oral hygiene routine to ensure your teeth stay strong and healthy:

Brush Twice a Day
Reach for your toothbrush at least twice a day. Brushing after every meal is even better! When you brush your teeth , you sweep away the food and debris that stick to your teeth and cause decay. Choose toothpaste with fluoride and an electric toothbrush or soft-bristled manual brush. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle against your teeth, and move back and forth in short strokes. If you scrub too hard, you may inflame your gums. Replace your brush every three months or when the bristles look worn.

Floss Twice a Day
Your toothbrush can’t reach between your teeth, so you need to floss to clear out trapped food particles in those areas. Slide the floss in the area between each tooth and gently scrape the sides of the teeth. Waxed floss glides between teeth with ease, and dental picks will do the job if traditional floss is hard to manipulate because of arthritis. Talk to your dentist if you’re having trouble developing a good flossing technique.

Consider a Rinse
Talk to your dentist about whether a fluoride or antimicrobial rinse is right for you. These rinses can help strengthen your tooth enamel and kill plaque-causing bacteria in your mouth, but they aren’t right for everyone. Your dentist can help you make a choice about the right rinse for you.

For a partner in excellent dental health, turn to Park 56 Dental of NYC. Our compassionate team of top dentists can help you develop good oral hygiene habits and keep your teeth in the best health possible. Our cosmetic dentistry services can correct almost any dental imperfection to give you more confidence in your smile. Call us at (212) 826-2322 to make an appointment and get on the road to great dental health.

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Drop us a note and let us know what you think, or contact the NYC dental office of Park 56 Dental Group to make an appointment at (646) 783-2529. We look forward to hearing from you!