Tips For a Lifetime of Good Oral Health  

There’s a prevailing belief that as a person ages, their oral health declines. Their teeth yellow, get loose and fall out. While this does happen to many people, it’s not something that has to happen. If you follow the tips below, it’s possible to have a lifetime of good oral health.

Get Teeth Cleaned Twice a Year

Make a habit of getting teeth cleaning in Mountain View, CA at least once every six months. If you are someone who develops excessive plaque, consider going once every three months.

See Dentist at First Sign of Trouble

As soon as you notice any signs of trouble, visit your dentist. Diseases of the teeth progress slowly over time. The earlier you see a dentist for treatment, the better your outcome will be. Signs of trouble include:

• Loose tooth
• Gaps developing between teeth
• Inflamed gums
• Toothache
• Gums bleeding

Avoid Hard Foods

Chipped teeth often happen as a result of accidentally biting into overly hard foods. Even seemingly innocuous foods may have small hard bits that can chip a tooth. Examples include fried chicken, beans (with small stones hidden among them), and of course ice.

Eat Nutritiously

A nutritious diet isn’t only necessary for a healthy body; it’s also necessary for good oral health. Vitamins and minerals are needed to keep your jawbone healthy, as well as teeth and gums. And, when you avoid junk food and instead fill your plate with whole foods, you’ll avoid a plethora of excess sugar and food additives that could harm your teeth.

Avoid Tobacco

Tobacco use is a big reason why older folks end up with yellowed teeth. The nicotine in the tobacco is staining. Since the enamel on the surface of your teeth is porous, this staining can become permanent. Avoid all forms of tobacco, including chewing tobacco, cigars, pipes, vaping and cigarettes.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Consider packing a spare toothbrush and tooth floss in your purse or inside an office drawer. This will help you to remember to brush and floss after each meal to ensure that every last bit of food debris is gone.

Visit your dentist in Mountain View, CA for more advice about keeping your teeth healthy for a lifetime. We look forward to seeing you!