Miami is a lively city with a diverse population and an active lifestyle. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that its residents are constantly on the move. Whether you’re swimming in the breathtaking ocean, exploring the countless museums or walking around the city, it’s important to maintain healthy dental habits. Most of us brush and floss, but adding a few more best practices can ensure that your smile looks and feels great. Here are the best dental care practices for Miami’s active individuals.
Regular Dental Visits
The first step to maintaining healthy dental habits is to schedule regular dental appointments. Miami’s active residents should aim to visit their dentist once every six months for a check-up and professional cleaning. This will ensure that any potential issues are identified early and properly treated. According to the American Dental Association, regular dental visits are vital to maintaining good oral health.
Your dentist will also be able to recommend additional treatments and best practices that will keep your mouth healthy and vibrant. For instance, they may recommend a fluoride treatment that can help protect and strengthen your enamel. They may also suggest using a mouth rinse and/or a toothpaste fortified with fluoride.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
In addition to visiting the dentist, Miami’s active individuals should practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis. This means brushing twice a day for two minutes and flossing daily. If you can, it is also a good idea to brush after eating, especially if you have eaten sugary or acidic foods. When you brush, make sure to go slowly and use a toothbrush with soft bristles. It’s also important to replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles become frayed.
Flossing is important for removing plaque and tartar from between your teeth and below the gumline. To floss properly, use about 18 inches of floss and gently wrap it around your index fingers. Hold it firmly between your thumbs and index fingers. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, moving up and down the teeth in a C-shape motion. Make sure to brush the back of your teeth and the back of your mouth.
Eat and Drink Smart
What you eat and drink has a significant impact on your dental health and overall health. Miami’s active residents should avoid sugary foods and drinks, as well as sodas and other acidic beverages. Drinking water throughout the day is a great way to keep your mouth healthy and your body hydrated. It helps to wash away food particles and bacteria so that they don’t cause cavities.
Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. These foods are packed with essential nutrients that can boost your dental health. Leafy greens such as spinach and kale are particularly beneficial as they contain vitamin A, which promotes healthy teeth and gums.
Avoid Bad Habits
Many Miami residents are active and enjoy participating in sports. If that’s you, be sure to protect your teeth with a mouth guard while you play. Mouth guards can help to prevent teeth from chipping, breaking and being knocked out.
Active Miami residents should also avoid smoking and chewing tobacco. Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause a host of dental issues such as gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancer. If you’re struggling to quit, talk to your dentist about which products may help you.
Get Plenty of Sleep
To maintain a healthy mouth, it is important to get plenty of rest. When you don’t get enough sleep, it can make you more susceptible to gum disease. Ensuring that you are getting at least seven hours of sleep each night will help keep your mouth healthy and your body functioning properly.
Conclusion
Miami is a beautiful city with an active population. To keep your smile looking and feeling great, it’s essential to practice good dental care. Schedule regular dental visits, practice good oral hygiene, eat and drink wisely, avoid bad habits, and get plenty of sleep. By following these best practices, Miami’s active residents can ensure that their teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come.