Your smile is the first thing people see when they meet you. It can make others feel welcomed, happy and seen. So, your oral hygiene is a worthwhile investment! We sat down to chat with Dr. Christina Pham, DDS, from Magnolia Dental to learn the expert tips about stewarding a smile that stands the test of time.
What are the best ways to practice good oral hygiene at home?
I encourage my patients to brush their teeth in the morning and at night. Of course, flossing at least once a day is vital as well. However, getting into a good routine with flossing can be difficult. I recommend purchasing the individual floss picks and stashing them where you spend the most time. You can floss while in the car on your commute to work or dropping the kids off at school!
What is the best kind of toothbrush to use?
Electric toothbrushes are the most effective. These days, they come with all sorts of bells and whistles. I recommend buying either Oral-B or Sonicare electric toothbrushes. If you're investing in a new toothbrush, find one with a timer (so you're brushing for the recommended amount of time) and a pressure sensor. People tend to brush very aggressively, damaging their teeth and gums. A toothbrush with a pressure sensor will tell you when you're brushing too hard – electric toothbrushes do most of the work for you, anyway!
When caring for your teeth, what is a list of foods to avoid? Are there any foods that promote tooth health?
Sugar is known to cause cavities, but having a sweet tooth isn't the only issue. Foods that are sticky or high in carbs are considered cariogenic (cavity-forming). The treats that have the highest risk of giving you cavities are sticky, chewy candies (like gummies) or chips and bread. However, good oral hygiene can protect your teeth from these foods (in moderation). Some foods that promote good oral health include celery, apples and dairy products.
What is the best way to whiten your teeth?
Many prescription and over-the-counter products claim to whiten teeth. Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are the main active ingredients. In-office whitening provides instant results, whereas at-home whitening could take several weeks. In our office, patients receive a set of whitening trays to use at home for maintenance.
Dr. Pham recommends seeing a dentist at least twice yearly for exams and cleanings. They proudly have state-of-the-art equipment that allows crowns to be made on-site and completed in one visit. If you haven't seen a dentist lately, Magnolia Dental is always accepting new patients. They are in network with most insurance companies and will work with patients who may be out of network or have no dental benefits. Schedule a comprehensive exam by calling their office at (720) 647-9880.
