24/7 Dental Hygiene

For patients suffering from periodontal disease, the goal of maintaining a plaque-free smile is likely ever-present in your mind. While brushing and flossing on a daily basis are things that you can easily accomplish at home, you may find yourself wondering how you can practice dental hygiene when you’re away from your arsenal of plaque-fighting instruments and products. Fortunately, keeping your teeth and gums healthy is something you can achieve 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A few helpful suggestions will help you keep up your hygiene even when you’re out and about.

Carry Travel-Size Essentials With You

It’s not always convenient to tote a full-size toothbrush and toothpaste with you. However, if you can manage to find a spot for a travel toothbrush and paste, it can be very beneficial to your oral health. This is particularly well-suited to something you keep around in the workplace. After you eat a meal or snack, begin by rinsing your mouth. Then, after 30 minutes, go ahead and brush your teeth.

When In Need, Chew Gum

Sometimes you’re out and about and practicing traditional dental hygiene is simply impossible. In these cases, chewing sugarless gum offers effective plaque removal. Always remember to check that the gum is free of sugar.

Goodbye Sugar, Hello Healthy Snacks

The bacteria that lead to cavities and other oral health problems feed on sugar, so it’s a good idea to skip sugary snacks and drinks altogether. However, if you’re going to indulge, do so when you have access to a toothbrush and paste. Otherwise, reach for a high-calcium snack like dairy or cut veggies. These foods help protect your teeth. And, of course, make water your drink of choice – it is hydrating and assists in washing away bacteria.

ABOUT YOUR ENCINITAS, CA, LASER PERIODONTIST:

As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Ann M. Kania is specially qualified to diagnose and treat issues concerning periodontal tissue and the supportive structures of a patient’s smile, as well as place dental implants to restore teeth lost to dental disease or trauma. Dr. Kania also offers the Pinhole® Surgical Technique (PST) for minimally-invasive, scalpel-free gum grafting. To seek Dr. Kania’s expertise, contact her office today at (760) 642-0711.