Make 2016 the year to improve your oral health. - Tooronga Family Dentistry in Glen Iris

Many people consider the beginning of a new year, a time to not only reflect on the year that has passed, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. Our team recommends that you make a New Year’s resolution to improve your oral health. Since oral health means more than just an attractive smile and poor oral health can have a significant impact on quality you of life and increase the risk to get diabetes, stroke and other diseases. Don’t let the condition of your mouth lead to poor health. I have written down some proven tips to get you started:

Floss every day. It’s the single most important factor in preventing gum disease, which affects more than 50 percent of adults. On an average you need to set aside two to three minutes for flossing at least once a day. If you avoid flossing because it irritates your gums, it means that you suffer from periodontal disease and you need to floss better.
Brush your teeth for at least two to three minutes twice daily. If you’re not sure whether you’re brushing long enough, try brushing for the length of an entire song on the radio.
Change your toothbrush or toothbrush head when the bristles become splayed and frayed. Old toothbrushes are not only ineffective, but they may harbor harmful bacteria, that can cause infections leading to more gingivitis and gum disease.
Drink sugary beverages through a straw. This will minimize the amount of time that the sugars are in contact with your teeth, which can minimize the risk of developing cavities.
Replace carbonated beverages, which cause enamel erosion and cavities, with water, milk, tea, or coffee.
Chew sugarless gum that contains xylitol after meals and snacks. This will help cleanse your mouth and prevent the bacteria associated with cavities from attaching to your teeth.
Wait one hour after consuming highly acidic food or drinks, like wine, coffee, citrus fruits, and soft drinks to brush your teeth. Because all these acids soften your enamel and increase the risk of wearing it away.
Have a dental visit every six months, to detect any emerging problems and stop them from developing into a health problem.

All these small steps will save you from cavities, oral infections and bad breath. Be sure to give Dr. Kaufman or Tooronga Family Dentistry, a call on phone number 98227006, if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, since your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!