Bolingbrook Dentist Shares Five Ways to Improve Oral Health

Nov. 29, 2012 - PRLog -- Does seeing your smile make you sullen? Have you endured dental checkups that weren’t up to your standards? Lily Cache Dental in Bolingbrook believes that every patient has the potential to achieve a gorgeous smile, and we want to help you let it shine.

These five simple steps will have you smiling wide once again:

1. Regular brushing: Your mother’s loving reminders as a child were true. Your toothbrush is one of the most important weapons you have against tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing removes leftover food particles that can lead to plaque buildup and bad breath. And don’t just clean your teeth in the mornings and at bedtime; a quick brush after lunch and after snacks keeps your mouth even healthier. Be sure to use a soft-bristled brush with a head that is small enough to reach the back molars.

2. Brush your tongue: Your tongue needs a scrubbing, too! It’s spongy and wet and is a playground for bacteria. Using a scraping tool or a toothbrush on your tongue removes disease-causing germs from its nooks and crannies. Plus, with those microscopic bad guys gone, your mouth will also smell fresher.

3. Rinse: In addition to brushing and scraping, most dentists recommend that you add rinsing to your routine. Mouthwash can flow between tight spaces that floss and bristles can’t reach to remove even more debris—all while killing germs. Be sure, though, to choose a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol. Alcohol can dry the mouth and gum tissue, disabling the natural ability of saliva to fight bacteria.

4. Eat well: You may give your dog a bone to help keep her teeth clean—the same principle goes for us humans. Foods that rub against the teeth while you eat are actually better for your oral health. Carrots and apples are excellent choices!

5. Stay away from dark beverages: If you want to keep your teeth white, refrain from drinking beverages that will stain. A simple good rule of thumb is that if it’s dark it’ll darken your teeth. Watch out for red wine, coffee, tea and dark soda.

If you want even more tips for maintaining oral health, contact Dr. Suzy Azalea, dentist in Bolingbrook.

About Suzy Azalea, D.M.D.:

Dr. Suzy Azalea graduated from the Southern Illinois School of Dentistry in 1998. After graduating from dental school, she became a founding member of the American Oral Systemic Health Association. Dr. Azalea began practicing dentistry in Nashville, TN and then moved back to Illinois to open Lily Cache Dental. To learn more about Dr. Azalea, visit http://www.lcdentalimplants.com.