Brush your teeth twice a day, and never forget to floss.

You might have heard these instructions earlier and know these are crucial for caring for your teeth. But these are not the only things the best dentist in Springfield VA, wants you to know.

There are many other nitty-gritty things about dental care and hygiene you need to know to make sure you don’t end up having any dental problems.

So, here are the top nine tips to keep your smile bright and healthy.

#1 Use Your Toothpaste Properly

Don’t use toothpaste as a soap for your teeth. It’s a topical agent like lotion. The more time your toothpaste is in contact with your teeth, the more effective it’ll be.

Spend some time brushing and allow the toothpaste to sit on your teeth.

Brush and spit out the foam but wait for 30 minutes to rinse. This will make sure the toothpaste has maximum effect.

#2 Let Your Dentist Know About Your Medication

You can have cavities even if you’ve had perfect oral health for years. Medications are often the primary reasons behind that.

Medications to treat anxiety or blood pressure can reduce salivary flow and increases the risk of decay. So, always keep your dentist in the loop about any medicines you take so that they can treat you accordingly.

#3 Visit Your Dentist Regularly

You might have a beautiful smile, but you should still regularly visit the best dentist in Springfield, VA.

Gum disease can crop up where you don’t see it and make your gums recede. And in such cases, your bones can also reduce and will cause a lot of problems.

Also, don’t wait for the pain to visit your dentist. Many oral problems don’t cause pain unless it’s severe but keep damaging your teeth.

If you visit your dentist frequently, they can diagnose problems and start treatment early or reverse your oral issues before they become painful.

#4 Maintain Good Dental Habits to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Some bacteria that cause tooth decay can also lead to heart disease. That’s because gum infections can travel through the bloodstream to the rest of your body.

By maintaining a good dental habit, you will also care for your heart and overall health.

#5 Do Not Always Brush Right After a Meal

Don’t just rush for a toothbrush right after a meal or drink.

After drinking or eating something acidic, brushing can soften your teeth’ enamel, which wears down the enamel.

So, rinse your mouth with water first or wait for an hour to brush your teeth.

#6 Chane Your Toothbrush Regularly

The American Dental Association advises changing toothbrushes every three months. In this way, you can make sure your toothbrush cleans your teeth effectively.

Plus, your toothbrush will protect you from the build-up of bacteria that remains in the bristles.

If you don’t remember when you last changed your toothbrush, look at the bristles.

If they appear to be wearied put, then you should go for a new toothbrush.

#7 Visit A Dentist Quickly If Your Gums Bleed

You have bleeding gum and think that’s because of hard brushing or flossing, think twice.

Bleeding gums could also indicate inflammation due to gingivitis and can become a gum disease if you overlook it for too long.

#8 Take Your Baby to the Dentist Too

Bacteria can start growing early, so you should take your child to the best dentist in Springfield, VA, by their first birthday or when the first tooth erupts, whichever comes first.

There are many things a dentist can do to make sure your kid has a good start with oral health. Never wait until your baby is a toddler first that first appointment.

#9 Don’t Brush Harder

Never brush your teeth too hard as it can wear away the surface of your gum and teeth. Also, it can expose the sensitive roots of your teeth.

Brush your teeth using gentle circles, especially near the gums. Also, use a soft-bristle toothbrush.

The same applies to flossing. Don’t pull the floss through your teeth or punch it up and down hard between your gums.

So, do you have any questions about keeping your gum and teeth healthy?