The fall season is known for bringing cooler temperatures, but it also brings the flu and colds. Those who are susceptible to illnesses are encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves, especially when it comes to their dental health.
Dental care is an important part of overall health and well-being. If you’re concerned about your oral health, here are some tips on how to maintain a healthy smile this fall:
Brush twice a day, floss daily and drink water regularly. These simple steps can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
See your dentist for regular checkups. A routine dental exam will help identify potential problems early on so they can be treated before they become more serious issues.
Visit the dentist if you have chipped teeth, loose crowns or caps or other dental issues that may be caused by injury or trauma during the winter months when there is less sunlight available for Vitamin D production in your body via the sun’s rays hitting your skin without proper protection from UV rays (e.g., sunscreen).
Consider using fluoride toothpaste to help prevent cavities and strengthen tooth enamel.
Have your teeth professionally whitened once or twice per year, if desired, to freshen up their appearance between dental checkups and cleanings.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and saliva flowing so that food particles don’t have time to stick around in between brushings and flossings (which can lead to plaque buildup).