Dental Hygiene

Professional dental cleanings are important for maintaining great oral health. But it is vital that you continue good dental hygiene at home as well.

Healthy dental hygiene habits can help keep your teeth strong and beautiful.

Here are our tips for maintaining a healthy smile.

Brush and Floss Every Day

Dental plaque is an invisible bacteria that lives inside your mouth. These bacteria love to eat sugar and produce an acid that erodes enamel and attacks your gums.

Dr. Michael Nichols recommends that you brush your teeth at least twice per day and floss once daily. This helps prevent tooth decay, periodontal disease, and other oral health issues.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste and Mouth Rinse

Toothpaste and mouth rinse with fluoride are available over the counter. Fluoride is safe and helps strengthen your tooth enamel. In turn, this makes your teeth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque.

Be Mindful of Your Diet

Have your teeth ever felt rough or "fuzzy" after eating sugary foods? While you can't see dental plaque, sometimes you can feel it on your teeth.

The good news is that eating a balanced, nutritional diet can help you reduce plaque. We also recommend drinking a glass of water after meals whenever possible. This can help wash away sugars from foods and drinks.

If you eat or drink something that contains acids, such as soda or candy, wait 30 minutes before brushing. This will allow your saliva time to neutralize the acids and protect your teeth.

Learn More About Dental Hygiene

Please contact us with any questions about your current dental hygiene routine. Dr. Michael Nichols would also be more than happy to speak with you during your next appointment.

To schedule your next visit with us, call Nichols Family Dentistry at (616) 333-8496. Our Grand Rapids dentist and his team would be more than happy to help!