As the school year gears up again, many of us are getting accustomed to new schedules and routines. Well, our Orland Park dentists are here to encourage you to keep your smile in mind as you develop new habits! Here are some simple things you can do throughout the day to support a healthy smile…
Carry Water
One of the simplest things that you can do to support your smile this year is to keep water with you so that you can sip throughout the day. Research has shown that dry mouth increases your risk of developing dental cavities, periodontal disease, and chronic bad breath. So take control of your oral health by reaching for water (instead of sugary and acidic beverages) during the day!
Rinse Habitually
It’s also a good idea to get into the habit of rinsing your mouth after meals and snacks. As you’d imagine, this helps minimize bad breath by removing food particles. However, it additionally supports enamel-remineralization, boosts saliva production, and reduces the potency of substances that can discolor your dental enamel.
Minimize Bad Habits
Our dental team also encourages you to stay alert for any habits that may be inadvertently damaging your teeth and gums. Here’s a prime example: if you are someone who chew on their pen or pencil while they’re working, you may be wearing down your dental enamel without even realizing it. It’s also common for people to grind and clench their teeth while concentrating. The problem is that this habit contributes to TMJ dysfunction as well as thinning enamel.
As you can see, there are a number of simple and effective steps you can take to prioritize your oral health this year. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation with our Tinley Park dentists, please contact our office by phone or through our Contact Us page.