Each year, millions of people resolve to improve their health. A few small changes can result in better oral health, which is a crucial part of your overall health—and results in a smile you feel great about.
At Century City Smiles, Dr. Shawn Saidian and Dr. Tania Ohebsion put together a list of tips to help you develop habits to improve the health of your mouth. Here’s what you need to know!
Your daily routine is the cornerstone of good oral health. Most people know they need to brush their teeth at least twice a day. Here are some tips to help make it as effective as possible.
When you brush, aim for about 30 seconds per quadrant of your mouth for a total of around two minutes. Make sure to be thorough and brush along your gum line, holding the brush at a slight angle.
Replace your brush regularly, too. Experts recommend every three to four months, but if you’ve been sick, notice signs of wear, or if your toothbrush is stored near others’ brushes, you should replace it more often.
Brushing alone isn’t enough. To protect your teeth, floss at least once daily. Plaque is a sticky substance that forms on your teeth, and if you don’t clean it away, it leads to tooth decay and gum disease.
Your toothbrush can’t reach between your teeth. To do that, you need to either floss or use a water pick. Don’t use your nails, folded paper, or utensils, because they can damage your gums or teeth.
If you have difficulty flossing, please discuss it with our staff. We can help you find a tool that works better for you than traditional floss. Small brushes, flossers, and water flossers are all options.
Happily, some of the habits that improve your oral health are good for the rest of your body, too. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your teeth clean and your body well hydrated. It’s a win-win!
It may not seem like nutrition and good oral health are closely connected, but they are. Too much sugar can harm your health, and it is also associated with tooth decay.
Eating a well-balanced diet, rich in nutrients like protein, healthy fats, and fiber, can help keep your teeth healthy, too.
If you have a chronic health condition such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, it can affect your oral health. Make sure Dr. Saidian is aware of your health conditions and discuss any specific steps you should take to maintain oral health.
Are you a smoker? Do you have a soda habit? Do you eat candy all day, every day? All of those habits can negatively impact your overall and oral health.
Generally, habits that are good for your body are also good for your mouth. For example, smoking can cause numerous issues and is associated with more tooth decay. Similarly, drinking too much soda can lead to obesity, and it may also cause tooth decay or gum disease.
Getting regular professional cleanings and oral health screenings is crucial to maintaining excellent oral health. Even if you have a perfect daily routine, you still need professional cleanings to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
The staff at Century City Smiles & Orthodontics is trained to screen for oral diseases. They may recognize signs well before you have any symptoms, and the earlier oral diseases are treated, the better your outcome will be.
If it’s time for your regular appointment, or if you have questions about how you can keep your mouth healthy in 2026, schedule an appointment today.
