Good oral health is a habit.

Your mouth helps you in multiple ways every single day. So, it’s in your best interest to take time to care for your teeth and gums. Today, our team in Decatur, AL wants to give you a gentle reminder of the things you should do to keep your mouth as healthy as it can be.

We are going to review the basics of good oral care, and we’ll let you know about some services we offer that could help. To take advantages of our treatments, schedule your next dental appointment at the office of Dr. Charles F. Betts, Jr., DMD. Call 256-274-8680 now to visit us before the end of the year.

▶ Be Consistent with Your Hygiene Routine

Your daily oral care will make a huge difference in the fight against tooth decay. You probably know what you should be doing. But only you know if you really are.

For starters, the American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste. You don’t need much, just a pea-sized amount to clean your teeth for two minutes at a time. This way you can scrub (but not too hard) on all sides to remove as much plaque and as many bacteria as you can.

You also should be flossing daily. Flossing is how you clean the spaces your toothbrush can’t. Specifically, the spaces between your teeth and below your gumline. By flossing, you are removing food particles and bacteria, and you are preventing plaque and tartar building before it can form.

Doing these things every day greatly decreases your risk of cavities and gum disease.

▶ Get Regular Dental Checkups

Think about how much you depend on your teeth. Every day, multiple times per day, you need your teeth to eat if nothing else. Your teeth go through a lot, which is why it’s important to have a professional look at them from time to time.

Even if you are brushing and flossing like you should every single time, you still have a chance of developing cavities and periodontal infections.

Regular dental cleanings and exams can help prevent problems before they develop or identify problems in the early stages. This can make your treatments less expensive and more effective. Whether you need a filling or non-surgical gum disease treatment, Dr. Betts and our team will be ready to keep you smiling. All you need to do is make an appointment with us.

▶ Do Something a Little Extra

The steps we have mentioned are aimed at preventive care, which is always the best approach for your oral health. Knowing this, we have two more services that go beyond the basics that can further reduce your chance of having a cavity.

Fluoride treatments can make your teeth stronger. Fluoride is a mineral that can help combat the effects of bacteria on your enamel. Fluoride can repair minor damage before it develops into decay.

You could think of dental sealants as armor for your teeth. When applied to teeth, sealants become a barrier between your teeth and harmful bacteria. Sealants don’t affect the appearance or the function of your teeth, but they can keep you cavity-free for longer.

Your Healthy Smile is Worth Having

Making a little effort can go a long way when it comes to oral health. To keep your teeth looking their best or to get them back on track, schedule an appointment with at Dr. Betts’s office soon.

Fill out our online form or call 256-274-8680 to request your visit.