May is National Dental Care Month

May is National Dental Care Month, so we thought it fitting to remind our readers of the importance of taking care of their pearly whites. A healthy smile requires consistent, healthy habits. Maintaining these habits will not only reduce the risks of cavities and infection, it will prevent the financial costs that come with dental repairs.

Get back on track with your routine for dental hygiene in Studio City so you can face a summer full of barbecues, vacations, family reunions, and weddings with confidence!

Some Tips to Keep in Mind

We all need a reminder every once in a while, so heed these tips and enjoy a healthier, brighter smile.

• Drink fluoridated water.
• Brush with fluoride toothpaste.
• Brush teeth thoroughly and floss between teeth to get rid of plaque.
• Visit your dentist regularly — even if you don’t have any natural teeth or you have dentures.
• Don’t use tobacco products. If you smoke, now is the time to quit.
• Limit intake of alcoholic drinks.
• If you suffer from diabetes, maintain control of this disease to decrease risk for other complications such as gum disease.
• If your medication gives you dry mouth, ask your doctor to prescribe you a different medication. If dry mouth persists, drink lots of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.
• See your doctor or a dentist if you suddenly see a change in taste and smell.
• If you are a caregiver, help children and older adults brush and floss their teeth.
• Brush at least twice a day.
• Limit sugary foods.
• Brush for a sufficient amount of time, between two and three minutes.
• Wear a mouthguard or helmet when playing sports to protect your teeth.
• Floss daily with a slow, gentle sawing motion.
• Limit acidic drinks like soft drinks and fruit juices, as these can erode tooth enamel.
• Don’t chew ice or use your teeth for cracking nuts, removing bottle tops or ripping open packaging, to reduce the risk of chipping or cracking.
• If you experience a knocked-out tooth, try to put the tooth back in place while you seek emergency dental care. If you can’t, wrap the tooth in plastic or place it in milk, then seek dental care.
• Get x-rays as recommended.
• See your dentist every six months without fail.
• See your dentist in between regular visits if you have a problem such as a toothache or bleeding gums.

Contact Studio City Dental

To schedule your six-month visit, contact us at 818-762-2977 or fill out our online form.