Braces have many benefits. As they ensure correct bite and tooth alignment, braces have many positive side effects, including:

•  Improved ability to chew food
•  Alleviation of speech impairment
•  Easier to brush, clean, and floss teeth
•  Reduced cavities and periodontal disease
•  Reduced grinding and chipping of teeth
•  Reduced risk of injury from protruding teeth

Caring for your teeth at home is easy and straightforward, and can improve oral health and benefit overall wellness. The following are at-home dental care practices anyone can implement into their daily routine:

•  Do not go to bed without brushing your teeth
•  Use the proper brushing techniques
•  Do not neglect your tongue
•  Use a fluoride toothpaste
•  Treat flossing as important as brushing
•  Do not let flossing difficulties stop you
•  Consider using mouthwash
•  Drink more water
•  Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Limit sugary and acidic foods
• See your dentist at least twice a year

It is important to visit the dentist at least once a year to ensure good oral health. At this visit, the dentist can check on the health of your teeth and deliver a professional cleaning. However, it is recommended to receive a professional cleaning every six months, or twice yearly. This recommendation can also vary from patient to patient and depends on a number of factors, such as an oral health condition. For example, patients that have a history of gum disease or periodontitis might have to visit the dentist more frequently to ensure the condition is properly managed. Due to their proven link to dental problems and complications, the same applies to those who have a chronic illness such as a heart condition or diabetes.

Best practices for maintaining whiter teeth include:

Minimize staining liquids – These include drinks such as coffee, tea, cola, and red wine. Using a straw to drink these beverages can help to reduce surface staining.

Eliminate tobacco – There is no shortage of evidence, both clinical and anecdotal, that smoking stains teeth. Stopping smoking can help minimize surface staining and is an important step in having whiter teeth.

Try a whitening toothpaste – Whitening toothpaste can visibly brighten teeth, making them several shades lighter.

Drink water between beverages that stain – This helps to rinse off any excess liquid that gets left behind. These residual fluids can stay on the teeth for long periods, deepening surface stains.

Keep up your daily oral care routine – We all get lost in the busyness of life, and sometimes that can interfere with our schedules. No matter how hectic life can get, it is essential to adhere to a regular oral care routine, which is the best first line of defense against stained teeth.

See your dentist for regular cleanings – Dentists know teeth better than any other healthcare professional and are experienced in the latest techniques and greatest technologies to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

If you or someone you love is looking for a qualified and trusted orthodontist, come to Point Place Dental care today. Our kind and compassionate orthodontists are experienced in helping people achieve good oral health. Call us today to book an appointment. We look forward to serving you! We serve patients from Toledo OH, Oregon OH, Ottawa Hills OH, Perrysburg OH, Woodhurst OH, Sylvania OH, and Shoreland OH.