Well, it’s that time of year again! Many of us are headed back to school, and, consequently, we’re settling into new routines. Our Glendale dentists encourage you to keep your smile in mind as you establish new habits. Keep reading to learn more about simple things you can do…
Carry Water
Here’s a simple thing that you can do to support a healthy smile—drink plenty of water during the day. You can even carry a water bottle with you, so that you won’t have to depend on accessible water fountains for hydration. Remember: patients who suffer from dry mouth develop cavities, periodontal disease, and bad breath at higher rates than normal.
Rinse Habitually
Many people will be getting used to new meal and snack schedules as part of the school year. We encourage our patients to try to get into the habit of rinsing their smiles with water after meals and snack-times. This simple habit can make a huge difference: it clears away dental debris, promotes enamel remineralization, and jump-starts saliva production in your mouth.
Minimize Bad Habits
It’s also a good idea to stay alert for any habits that may inadvertently put your smile at risk. If, for example, you find yourself chewing on the end of your pencil or pen as you work, we encourage you to replace this habit with one that doesn’t put your dental enamel at risk. Likewise, many people unconsciously grind their teeth or clench their jaws when they’re focused on something. If you notice this behavior in your own life, talk to your dental team about steps you can take to protect your smile.
As you can see there are a number of straightforward and effective steps you can take to prioritize your smile. If you want to learn more about establishing a healthy dental routine, please reach out to our Glendale dentists by phone or through our Contact Us page.