Oral hygiene is your initial defense against tooth decay and gum problems. Brushing and flossing removes bacteria and plaque that dwell inside your mouth. To keep your smile healthy and bright, you need to drop by at the clinic at least every six months. Aside from this, your Plano TX dentist offers some tips on how to keep your oral health in tip top shape.

Eat a balanced diet
Eating a balanced diet is essential to your overall well-being and to your oral health as well. Your diet should include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, protein, and low-fat dairy foods.

Additionally, you should eat food that contains calcium, Vitamin D, and omega-3 to fight tooth decay and gum disease. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water.

Exercise regularly
Regular exercise keeps your body in good shape and at the same time prevents you from being overweight, which helps reduce your risk of gum disease.

Avoid stress
According to a study, people who are always stressed tend to neglect their daily oral regimen. This can increase the risk of tooth decay and other oral problems.

Quit Smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of oral cancer in the US. It can also stain your teeth, cause gum disease, and other oral health problems. If you’re a smoker, you need to quit this habit at once.

Avoid bad oral habits
Teeth grinding, jaw clenching, chewing on ice, and biting on hard objects like pens and pencils can damage your teeth. You should stay away from this bad practice so you’ll maintain your gorgeous smile without any cracks or chips in your teeth.

For more tips on oral health, talk to Plano TX dentist Dr. John M. Hucklebridge. Please feel free to contact Plano Smile Studio at 972.398.2550. Call and book an appointment.