What are your oral hygiene habits like? You know, how you take care of your teeth and gums relates directly to how healthy your smile is and how long it will last, says the American Dental Association (ADA). So your Vero Beach, FL, dentist, Dr. Raymond Della Porta II, and his dedicated staff work hard to support your at-home dental routine. Learn what this experienced and caring team advises and offers for all your entire family's best oral health.

It starts at home

The ADA advises several strategies to keep your teeth and gums as strong and attractive as possible, and frankly, they are things you probably know about and do already. However, your Vero Beach dentist emphasizes that consistency with tooth-friendly habits pays big dividends--not only now, but several years down the road as you age.

So make sure these habits get your full attention every day:

1. Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste.
2. Floss in between your teeth to remove bacteria-filled plaque, a major cause of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.
3. Stay hydrated by drinking several glasses of water a day. Water increases your production of beneficial saliva, avoiding dry mouth and halitosis and keeping teeth and gums clean.
4. Avoid processed sugars and carbohydrates.
5. Report any dental pain or changes in how your mouth feels or functions right away. (For instance, if a tooth hurts when you drink something hot or cold, contact Dr. Della Porta.)
6. Wear a mouth guard while playing sports or if you habitually grind your teeth at night.

It continues at the dental office

Dr. Della Porta sees his patients every six months for oral examinations and hygienic cleanings. He takes digital X-rays as needed and checks for:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease (measuring periodontal pockets, or the spaces between teeth and gums)
• Oral cancer
• Breakdown of restorations such as fillings and dental crowns
• Proper dental bite and alignment

Your Vero Beach, FL, dentist presents patients with his findings and makes preventive and restorative recommendations. For instance, he may recommend a different flossing technique or a special antibacterial mouth rinse for patients who struggle with gingivitis. Also, Dr. Della Porta discusses how the patient would like to improve his or her smile aesthetics.

The bottom line

Partner with your dentist in developing and maintaining good oral hygiene habits. As a result, you'll enjoy years of healthy smiles. For your routine check-up and cleaning, please call Dr. Raymond Della Porta, II for an appointment at (772) 567-1025.