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At Priti Naik, DDS, Dr. Priti Naik is a big believer in the power of preventive and conservative dentistry. The best way to keep your mouth healthy is with proper eating and dental hygiene habits.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 5 preventive care tips that you can use to keep your smile healthy and intact for years to come:
You’ve heard it every time you go to the dentist. “Are you flossing?” And the answer is probably, “No”. Only about 4 in 10 Americans floss every day, and 20% of people never floss. Skipping the floss is extremely harmful to your oral health.
Brushing your teeth, even with an electric toothbrush, is not enough to remove all of the plaque, bacteria, and tartar that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. You need to floss every single day.
When you do it properly, flossing only takes a few minutes per day, and it’s the single best thing you can do to prevent issues like tooth decay and infections, and gum disease. Not sure how to get started? Check out this simple YouTube video, or ask for a demonstration next time you come to Priti Naik, DDS!
Water flossers like the Waterpik are not as effective as flossing regularly, and it’s recommended to use dental floss alongside water flossers.
Still, the ADA has approved several water flossers, and they can be effective for removing debris from your mouth, particularly if you do not have the time for a comprehensive flossing session, or if you prefer to use a water flosser.
Traditional floss is best, but a water flosser is much better than nothing.
Though it has not been proven that electric toothbrushes are necessarily better than manual toothbrushes, they are much easier to use properly, and the vibrating action of an electric toothbrush can help you remove plaque and food debris more easily.
Many people grind their teeth, and are not even aware of it. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can result in premature wear to your teeth, and you may even crack or damage a tooth if you continue to grind your teeth without a night guard.
If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, come in for a consultation at Priti Naik, DDS to protect your teeth and keep them healthy.
Try to avoid drinking sugary sodas, and don’t eat too many sugary foods, or snacks that are extremely high in simple carbohydrates, such as potato chips. A diet high in sugar and simple carbohydrates encourages the growth of oral bacteria.
If you do consume sugary foods and snacks, consider brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after doing so. This will help minimize bacterial growth, and prevent tooth decay and periodontitis.
If you follow these tips, and come in for regular teeth cleanings and oral exams at Priti Naik, DDS, you’ll be able to preserve your dental health for years to come. Overdue for a teeth cleaning or oral exam? Give us a call to set up an appointment at (703) 288-1800, or come into our office today at 8230 Boone Blvd, #320, Vienna, VA 22182. We look forward to treating you!