City Tech Dental Hygiene: 20 Tips for a Healthy Smile in 2023

Introduction

Dental hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), 90% of adults over the age of 20 have some form of periodontal disease. City Tech's dental hygiene program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and treat dental diseases and promote oral health.

20 Tips for a Healthy Smile

1. Brush your teeth twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

2. Floss once a day. Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.

   

3. Use a fluoride mouthwash. Fluoride helps to strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities.

4. Visit your dentist regularly. Get regular checkups and cleanings to prevent and treat dental problems.

5. Limit sugary foods and drinks. Sugar can feed the bacteria in your mouth and lead to cavities.

6. Drink plenty of water. Water helps to wash away plaque and bacteria from your teeth.

7. Don't smoke. Smoking can stain your teeth, damage your gums, and increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

8. Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and high in fiber can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

   

9. Wear a mouthguard when playing sports. A mouthguard can help to protect your teeth from injury.

   

10. Use a straw when drinking acidic beverages. Acidic beverages can erode your teeth. Using a straw can help to protect your teeth from this damage.

11. Avoid grinding your teeth. Teeth grinding can damage your teeth and cause jaw pain. If you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about a nightguard.

12. Don't chew on ice. Chewing on ice can damage your teeth and cause them to chip.

13. Be gentle when brushing your teeth. Brushing your teeth too hard can damage your enamel.

14. Use a tongue scraper. A tongue scraper can help to remove bacteria from your tongue and improve your breath.

15. Don't share a toothbrush. Sharing a toothbrush can spread bacteria and lead to oral health problems.

16. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months. A worn out toothbrush will not be as effective at removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth.

17. Don't rinse your mouth with water after brushing. Rinsing your mouth with water after brushing can wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste.

18. Spit out the toothpaste. Don't swallow the toothpaste after brushing. Swallowing too much fluoride can lead to fluorosis, which can cause white spots or streaks on your teeth.

19. Brush your teeth for 2 minutes. Brushing your teeth for less than 2 minutes will not be as effective at removing plaque and bacteria from your teeth.

20. Make oral hygiene a habit. The best way to maintain a healthy smile is to make oral hygiene a habit. By following these tips, you can help to prevent dental problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.

Conclusion

Dental hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being. By following these 20 tips, you can help to prevent dental problems and keep your teeth and gums healthy for life.