Smiling girl in front of white wallToday is all about showing some love to those you care about, and your teeth shouldn’t be left off the list. Once your permanent teeth come in, they are with you for a lifetime—at least they are supposed to be. So taking care of your teeth and gums is critical in order to maintain the best oral health possible and avoiding tooth decay. Here’s what you need to know to show your teeth some love this Valentine’s Day.

Get a Good Routine

Maintaining a healthy oral health regimen is all about getting into a routine. Set aside at least two minutes twice a day to brush. Follow up one daily brushing with flossing. Part of the routine should also include routine dentist visits, which should occur every six months.

Don’t Slack With Braces

Having braces doesn’t mean it’s ok to stop taking as much care of your teeth. It’s important to take care of your teeth before, during, and after braces to keep your teeth and gums healthy and avoid irreversible damage. While taking care of your teeth is more difficult with braces, it’s as critical as ever to maintain a proper oral health routine and avoid sticky and crunchy foods.

Why it Matters

A healthy mouth goes well beyond fresh breath and preventing cavities and gum disease. It can also mean avoiding other types of medical disorders, such as heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.

If you didn’t already have enough reasons to love your teeth, there are obviously many reasons to maintain a healthy mouth. Still have questions or concerns? Give Dr. Bennett a call today to find out more about how to take care of your smile.