In addition to regular dentist visits and brushing habits, a surprising factor in your oral health can be the small, everyday choices you make.
Whether it’s what you eat or the tools you choose, seemingly minor decisions can have a significant impact on your oral health.
Better Choices for Your Oral Health
Let’s talk about some of the important choices you make, along with some expert tips you can start implementing today, for better your oral health for years to come!
Soft Bristle Brushes vs. Hard Bristle Brushes
When it comes to toothbrushes, harder isn’t better. While hard-bristle brushes may seem like they would clean more effectively, they can actually scrape enamel and irritate your gums, leading to long-term damage.
Instead choose a soft-bristle toothbrush that removes plaque gently without risking enamel erosion. Look for brushes marked “soft” or “extra soft,” which are recommended by dentists and the ADA.
Water vs. Juice
Sugary drinks, even the healthy-sounding ones like fruit juices, can be bad for your teeth. Despite being more “natural” than pop, juices are also full of sugars and acids that wear down enamel and create the perfect environment for cavity-causing bacteria.
Instead, opt for water, specifically fluoridated water. Not only does it keep you hydrated without adding sugar, but fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and prevent decay.
Invisalign with a Dentist vs. Mail-in Aligners
Mail-order aligners may seem like a convenient and budget-friendly option for straightening your teeth, but they often don’t come with the same level of professional oversight. Poorly fitted aligners can damage your teeth or gums plus stunt your progress.
Invisalign treatment supervised by a licensed dentist is the better investment. This means high-quality aligners plus in-person progress monitoring by a trained and experienced pro.
Berries vs. Citrus Fruits
Fruits are a celebrated part of a healthy diet, but when it comes to oral health, not all fruits are created equal. Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are highly acidic, which can erode tooth enamel over time.
A better pick? Berries are lower in acid yet packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Plus, fruits like strawberries even have mild whitening properties.
Xylitol Chewing Gum vs. Sugary Gum
It’s no secret that sugar is not your friend when it comes to your teeth. Even worse? Sugar in sticky, hard-to-remove forms like gum and candy.
Instead, pick sugar-free gum made with xylitol. Xylitol not only prevents cavities but also helps stimulate saliva production, which naturally rinses away food particles and protects your teeth.
Professional Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Kits
While over-the-counter whitening kits are widely available and temptingly affordable, they can be inconsistent and sometimes harmful to your teeth and gums if not used correctly.
Professional whitening treatments administered by your dentist, on the other hand, are safer, more effective, and tailored to you.
Smooth Chocolate vs. Crunchy Candy
Who knew the type of chocolate you eat could make a difference? Sticky and crunchy candies get stuck on and between teeth, increasing the time your teeth are exposed to sugars and acids.
If you are going to have a sweet treat, smooth dark chocolate (70% or higher cacao) is your best choice as it contains healthy antioxidants. But whether you choose dark or milk chocolate, stick with smooth, plain chocolate that more easily washes off your teeth.
Regular Dental Visits vs. Waiting for a Problem
Too many people put off dental visits because they are not having tooth or gum issues that concern them.
However, preventative dental visits are extremely important for ongoing oral health. Not only do twice a year visits help catch problems quickly, but they allow for professional cleanings that are more effective than then best at-home care.
Better Choices Today for a Healthier Smile Tomorrow
More questions about which choices may be best for the health of your teeth and gums? Ask at you next visit. Call today to make your appointment with our experienced team!