How To Make the Most of Your Dental Cleanings

Not everyone enjoys the process of getting their teeth cleaned, but most people do like the way it feels afterward. Having extra-clean teeth is a good feeling! 

At Santa Monica Bay Dental in Santa Monica, California, our dentists love seeing you at your regular appointments, but we want you to enjoy that extra-clean feeling all the time. A comprehensive annual exam and twice-a-year cleanings go a long way toward keeping your mouth healthy, but these tips can give you the sensation of very clean teeth all the time. 

Follow a rigorous dental hygiene schedule

It’s important to brush at least twice a day, and to use a good technique when you do. Make sure you’re holding your brush in a way that allows you to clean just barely under your gumline, spend at least 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth for a full two minute brushing, and use small circular motions. 

Also, be gentle! Aggressive brushing can be harmful. Use a brush with soft bristles and replace it when it looks frayed, or every three months, whichever comes first. 

You should also consider brushing after eating something sticky or that may cause stains. 

Floss at least once a day, and consider adding a mouthwash to your routine if you don’t already use one. Although you already know all of this, if you’re like most people, you probably skip a session now and then. 

Don’t smoke

There are so many reasons to quit smoking! By now you know that it’s bad for your overall health, but did you know that it’s bad for your teeth, too? In fact, if you smoke, you ruin every cleaning. 

Smoking increases the bacteria in your mouth and causes you to produce more plaque. And that’s not to mention the fact it increases your risk of oral cancer. 

Avoid sugary foods and drinks

Sugary foods and beverages are problematic for a couple of reasons. One is that sugar causes additional bacterial growth and can increase the acidity of your mouth, and the two combined can lead to tooth decay. 

Soda is especially bad for your teeth because the phosphoric acid and citric acid that make it fizzy damage the enamel on your teeth, leaving you more vulnerable to tooth decay. 

Starchy foods, too, like bread, crackers, and pasta, can lead to tooth decay. Particles of these kinds of foods that stay in your mouth break down into sugar — once again leading to more acid and more bacteria. 

Your best bet is water to drink and fruits and veggies to eat when it comes to keeping your teeth healthy! 

Chew sugar-free gum

Chewing gum after a meal can help to remineralize your enamel. It stimulates saliva production, and helps to raise the pH of plaque, according to preliminary studies. 

Get regular cleanings

Of course, the best way to enjoy that after-a-cleaning feeling is to have a cleaning! If you’re overdue for your regular dental visit, schedule your appointment today. We’ll be happy to see you.