Working Toward Better Oral Health

At NHA, we know that oral health is tied to your overall health. We provide dental services on a sliding fee, like our medical services, and we accept Medicare and Medicaid.

We’re providing these tips to help you take care of your teeth and mouth at home:

Brush regularly. Brush thoroughly but not too hard. Brushing too had can damage the enamel on your teeth. Brush with a soft bristle brush for about 2 to 3 minutes. Be sure to brush all sides of your teeth, including the tops, and don’t forget your tongue. Plaque can grow there, too! Be sue to brush twice per day—once before bed and don’t eat anything after brushing for bed.

Use fluoride. Choose a toothpaste that includes fluoride. Fluoride helps strengthen teeth and reduce tooth decay. Acid from sugary foods breaks down the enamel on your teeth. Fluoride helps the teeth slow this process and even helps teeth repair.

Floss once per day. Flossing needs to be a part of your daily routine. Even proper brushing with a great toothbrush can’t reach in between your teeth the way floss can. Floss removes plaque and bacteria to reduce cavities between teeth and to help reduce gingivitis – an inflammation of the gums that leads to gum disease.

Don’t smoke. Among the many reasons not to smoke is the fact that smoking contributes to gum disease. Smoking also yellows your teeth and tongue.

Limit sugary foods and starches. Candies, desserts, and many processed foods have large amounts of sugar. Sugar produces an acid in the mouth that eats away at your enamel. Similarly, starchy foods, like chips, bread, and crackers, break down into sugars in your mouth.

Drink water instead of sugary drinks. Sugary drinks aren’t only bad for your waistline. They are a major contributor to tooth decay. The ADA recommends drinking water or unsweetened tea throughout the day for better oral health.

Visit NHA twice per year. To help maintain good oral health, visit your NHA dentist twice per year!

Call us to book an appointment today!

For more tips on maintaining good oral health, visit https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/tips.html