A Dentist Give Tips for Avoiding a Tooth Infection

Good oral hygiene is a must for everyone, and your dentist will certainly tell you that. Preventing a tooth infection can be as simple as using the right toothbrush, flossing regularly, and avoiding certain beverages like coffee or wine. Read on for more tips!

Brush your teeth twice a day

Brushing your teeth is essential for preventing a tooth infection, but it's easy to forget how long you should brush for. The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least two times per day with fluoride toothpaste to reduce the risk of gingivitis and other dental diseases.

Flossing regularly reduces the risk of developing a tooth infection, but many people still neglect to do it. Don't forget to floss at night before you go to bed! Flossing is essential because bacteria can't travel through that space between your teeth and gums.

Limit how much sugar you eat

Sugar can give you a tooth infection, so it's crucial to cut down on the amount of sugar in your diet. This includes limiting fruit juices and energy drinks that are high in simple sugars. It might be easier said than done, but there are plenty of healthier options if you want something sweet.

Drink lots of water

Drink water throughout the day. Your body needs a certain number of fluids to stay healthy, and your teeth need it too! Water helps flush out bacteria in your mouth and prevents plaque from building up on your teeth.

Keep track of any symptoms

If you start feeling discomfort or pain while chewing, that could be an early sign of tooth decay. Other symptoms include pain when drinking hot or cold liquids, bleeding gums, and bad breath that won't go away with regular brushing. If you experience any of these signs for more than a week, schedule an appointment at the dentist immediately.

Don’t brush too hard

Brushing your teeth is vital to keep them healthy but brushing too hard can cause damage. Brush gently, and if you feel discomfort or pain when brushing your teeth, be sure to let the dentist know about it!

Get regular dental check-ups

Regular teeth cleanings are the best way to prevent a tooth infection. The dentist will remove any plaque or tartar that has built up, and they'll make sure you aren't brushing too hard!

Avoid coffee, wine, soda

Coffee can stain your teeth over time if consumed regularly. If you enjoy drinking it every day, use a straw to limit the contact between your teeth and coffee. Wine can cause similar discoloration, so it's best to drink these beverages through a straw as well. If you're craving something fizzy, stick with water instead! Finally, soda is very acidic and doesn't have any nutritional value like other sugary drinks.

Keep your toothbrush clean

It's essential to keep your toothbrush clean to prevent the growth of bacteria. Rinse it off with water after each use and store it upright or covered in a container when you're not using it. If possible, buy an extra one so that you can switch them out every few months!

Don’t let anyone else use your toothbrush

Don't share your toothbrush with anyone else, especially if they have a cold or the flu. It's easy to spread this kind of bacteria from person to person without realizing it.