Brushing and flossing form the foundation of dental hygiene. However, there are more things that you can do to help your smile stay clean and bright! Two of those things are to incorporate mouthwash into your morning and evening routines and to chew gum after meals.
Mouthwash can be an excellent addition to the hygiene routines of some people. Therapeutic mouthwashes are the best, as they are formulated to do more than just freshen your breath. They can kill bacteria, fight plaque, and a host of other beneficial things. Look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance on any mouthwash you choose to incorporate into your routine.
After you eat, your mouth is more sensitive to abrasion. Thus, it is not a good idea to brush your teeth immediately after eating. However, it IS a good idea to get all of the food particles and debris away from your teeth as soon as possible.
Enter chewing gum.
Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating has been proven, through multiple studies, to stimulate saliva flow. This saliva flow cleans your teeth and delivers fortifying substances to your mouth. Of course, chewing gum with sugar in it also stimulates saliva flow, however, the sugar present in the gum feeds the bacteria in your mouth, negating the benefits of the gum.
For more information, feel free to call Dr. Scott Chandler, DMD in Park City, UT at 435-649-2078. Dr. Scott Chandler and our team look forward to speaking with you.
