5 healthy habits to maintain your smile

It’s sad but true – all of us are getting older! And as we age, the years are reflected not only in our skin, hair, and decaying fashion sense, but in our teeth as well.

You may notice that your teeth gradually become darker, or that you have more chipped and broken teeth as they dry out and become more brittle. Plaque can start to build up more quickly, and old fillings may crack or fracture, all of which lets decay-causing bacteria flourish.

Though this list may sound frightening, the great news is that there are a few healthy habits you can get into right now, to maintain your smile and keep it looking good for years.

1. Stay focused on good oral hygiene

A no-brainer? Perhaps, although dental research shows that periodontal disease, or gum disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss for older Australians. And gum disease often begins when oral hygiene isn’t up to scratch. So don’t skimp on your teeth brushing routine, and remember to floss your teeth every day!

In its early stages, gum disease is usually painless, which means you might not know you have it. Fortunately, gum disease can be overcome with good oral hygiene and early attention from your dentist, which leads us to…

2. Visit Wickham Terrace Dental for regular preventive dentistry

As you grow older and wiser, you’ll be aware of the truth of the saying, “A stitch in time saves nine”. And that’s particularly true of your dental health.

It’s so much easier for the Brisbane Wickham Terrace Dental team to treat oral health problems in their early stages, or even prevent them altogether, than it is to address them once they’ve developed. That’s why it’s so important to keep up your regular visits to the dentist.

Our principal dentist Dr Andrew Teakle says, “Regular check-ups, and especially six-monthly visits to our in-house dental hygienist, are crucial in helping you maintain your smile and enjoy healthy, good-looking teeth.”

3. Do away with tobacco and your teeth will thank you

The lifestyle choices you make will have a big impact on the appearance of your teeth. For example, consuming large amounts of acidic drinks like fruit juice, soft drinks, sports drinks and wine, will cause acid wear on your teeth.

And of course, one of the most harmful habits you can have is smoking. As well as causing lung disease, heart disease, and cancer, smoking is also the culprit behind many dental diseases which affect your gums and jawbone – not to mention oral cancer.

So bin the smokes, and enjoy the feeling of a healthier smile.

4. Get back to basics with healthy brushing and flossing

Though you’ve done it for decades, it’s worth reminding yourself of the do’s and don’ts of brushing and flossing. Dr Nicholas Yee from Wickham Terrace Dental in Brisbane explains.

“Start by choosing a good quality fluoride toothpaste and a soft toothbrush,” Dr Yee says. “Brush morning and night for at least two minutes, using a timer if necessary, to make sure you clean every individual tooth.”

Flossing should also be a focus, Dr Nick says. “It’s tempting to skip flossing, but this is a big mistake. Your toothbrush simply can’t fully reach between your teeth, so it’s important to floss carefully every day to clean these tiny areas.”

5. Look after your smile and your whole body will benefit

As they’re such an important part of your body, the health of your teeth and gums has a big effect on your overall health.

For example, dental research shows a clear link between gum disease and serious diseases of your whole body such as heart disease and diabetes. It’s another good reason to take care of your smile and prevent oral diseases from taking hold.

So take care of your smile as you age, and your whole body can be happier!

No matter what your age, the Wickham Terrace Dental team are always happy to help you keep your teeth and mouth in great shape. Call us today on 07 3831 3031 to arrange your preventive oral health checkup in our Brisbane CBD dental practice.

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