Self-care is the practice of taking time for your physical and mental health, and can include a focus on appearance, reducing stress, or improving your general well-being.
Your McAllen dentists wholeheartedly believe that dental care should be a part of self-care, too. Many people worry about their teeth and taking the time to care for your smile can greatly boost your confidence.
Keeping Up With Your Dental Hygiene
Taking care of your health and appearance is part of self-care and this includes dental care.
You may already be keeping up with your dental hygiene via brushing your teeth and tongue at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day. But did you know that regular dental checkups are just as important to keeping a healthy smile?
To help improve your dental hygiene routine, you can purchase an electric toothbrush, which is a favorite among McAllen dentists as they are more efficient than a manual toothbrush.
Fluoridated mouthwash can also help strengthen your teeth, and you can also pick better foods or drinks to help improve your oral health.
The Importance of Drinking Water
Unfortunately, most people do not drink enough water, and dehydration can have numerous negative effects, which can include tooth decay.
Drinking plenty of water, however, has a number of health benefits. For instance, it helps rinse out food particles and can also wash away damaging acids from foods or drinks you might’ve eaten.
Finally, when you’re dehydrated, you have less saliva, which minimizes how well your teeth are protected.
Change Up Your Diet
Your diet affects your teeth. For one, you need plenty of calcium and iron to keep your teeth healthy, but other vitamins are just as important to protect your gum health. In order to obtain all the minerals, nutrients, and vitamins you need for your health, you should consider eating a varied diet that includes plenty of vegetables.
On the other hand, reducing sugary and acidic foods and drinks is just as important. That doesn’t mean that you have to cut them out entirely, but rather that you should consume them less often.
When you do eat a sugary treat, you should always rinse out your mouth with water or mouthwash, as this can help to wash some of the harmful sugars and bacteria away. You should also brush your teeth about half an hour after eating.
Another great idea is adding crunchy foods to your diet. The best ones are fruits like apples or vegetables like broccoli. Eating these raw can help scrub away plaque before it hardens.
Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
No matter how well you brush, you still need to see your dentist regularly. You should have a cleaning and exam at least twice a year.
If you’re still looking for a dentist’s office in your area or dentists in McAllen, TX, near Expressway 83, then reach out to Heroes Dental today!
Heroes Dental: Here for Your Whole Family!
If you’re looking for a McAllen dentist that can treat everyone from baby to grandma, Heroes Dental is here for you! We can help make dental care a part of your self-care routine!