Kid Smile - Children's Dentist Dr. Robert Ellis, III

Healthy teeth and gums are the keys to a healthy smile. Taking care of your teeth and gums will not only keep your mouth healthy, but it will also help you improve your health. As a dentist, I understand that there is a strong correlation between oral health and overall health. Below are some tips that I recommend to all of my patients:

Brush Twice A Day

I always advise my patients to brush their teeth for a minimum of two minutes, at least twice a day. Brushing helps prevent plaque from building up on the teeth. Plaque can mix with sugar and create a bacteria that causes the teeth to decay. I recommend using a fluorinated toothpaste because fluoride helps strengthen the enamel.

A toothbrush should be replaced every three months. However, if a person develops an illness, then I recommend replacing the toothbrush after he or she has recovered from the illness. The germs on the toothbrush can cause a reinfection.

Use An Anti-Cavity Mouthwash

I recommend that patients use an anti-cavity mouthwash after they finish brushing. Anti-cavity mouthwashes are designed to fight plaque and cavities. Some types of mouthwashes can also help restore enamel. Additionally, mouthwash can help freshen breath.

Flossing

Flossing is something that I have noticed that many patients neglect. According to the American Dental Association, only 19 percent of people floss on a regular basis. Flossing is essential for maintaining good dental health because it helps remove plaque from the places that the toothbrush cannot reach. That is why I recommend flossing at least once a day.

Flossing will not only prevent cavities and gum disease, but it may also help reduce the risk of heart disease. In fact, some studies suggest that flossing may reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 17 percent.

See A Dentist Regularly

I recommend seeing a dentist at least once every six months. Regular dental checkups will help detect common dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease. Patients will also get a thorough cleaning during their dental visit. I always tell my patients that seeing a dentist regularly will not only help keep their teeth healthy, but it will also help them save a lot of money in the long run.

Many people who delay dental care are often required to have more extensive procedures, such as root canals. Extensive dental procedures can be quite costly.

Eat A Well-Balanced Diet

There is a strong correlation between a healthy diet and a healthy mouth. Even if patients brush and floss every day, they may still develop dental problems if they are not eating healthy. That is why I always tell my patients about the importance of eating a healthy diet.

I recommend eating calcium-rich foods, such as milk and yogurt. Calcium helps keep the bones and teeth strong. Milk and yogurt also have a low acidity, which means that they will not erode the enamel. Cheese is also very high in calcium.

Vitamin C is another nutrient that is important for dental health. Studies have shown that people who do not get enough vitamin C are more prone to gum disease. Strawberries, peas, broccoli, red peppers, cauliflower, kiwi and tomatoes are examples of some of the foods that are high in vitamin C.

I also recommend that people eat plenty of vitamin A-rich foods. Vitamin A helps fight bacterial infections. It is found in eggs, vegetables, tomatoes and milk.
Furthermore, I recommend limiting one’s consumption of soft drinks, candy and fruit juices. Those are some of the worst foods for the teeth.

Young Kid Brushing Teeth - Children's Dentist Dr. Robert Ellis, III