Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well-being. At Rankin and Mingle Dentist in Aurora, CO, we understand how crucial it is to care for your teeth and gums. In Aurora, CO, our educated, highly qualified dentists, Dr. Michael Mingle and Dr. Jennifer Rankin, are experienced dental professionals who guide you through the best practices for achieving a healthy, dazzling smile.

Today, we’ll share five practical ways to care for your smile and explain how Rankin and Mingle Dentistry can help you maintain optimal oral health.

Daily Dental Care Routine

A solid daily dental care routine is the foundation of good oral health. Here are some essential tips to keep your teeth and gums in top shape:

Brushing

• Frequency: Brush your teeth at least twice daily, preferably after meals.
• Technique: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, ideally an electric toothbrush and fluoride or nano hydroxyapatite toothpaste. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle, circular motions to clean all surfaces of your teeth.
• Duration: Spend at least two minutes brushing to ensure thorough cleaning.

Flossing

• Importance: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and along the gumline, areas your toothbrush can’t reach.
• Method: Use about 18 inches of dental floss, gently slide it between your teeth, curving it around each tooth in a C-shape and moving it up and down.

Mouthwash

• Benefits: Mouthwash helps reduce plaque, prevent gum disease, and freshen breath. It is not indicated for everyone as it is not beneficial to overly reduce the good and bad bacteria.  Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist to find out if a mouthwash is indicated for you. 
• Usage: This will vary depending on your circumstance. NEVER use an alcohol based rinse. 

Healthy Diet for a Healthy Smile

What you eat plays a significant role in your oral health. Here are some dietary tips to promote strong teeth and gums:

Foods to Include

• Calcium-Rich Foods: Some dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds help strengthen tooth enamel.
• Crunchy Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
• Water: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining saliva flow, which neutralizes acids and cleanses your mouth.

Foods to Avoid

• Sugary Snacks and Drinks: Limit your intake of candies, sodas, and other sugary treats, as they contribute to tooth decay and systemic inflammation.
• Acidic Foods and Beverages: Avoid citrus fruits, tomatoes, and carbonated drinks, as they can erode tooth enamel over time.

Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings

Routine visits are crucial for maintaining oral health. Here’s why:

Preventative Care

• Professional Cleanings: Our hygienists will remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot eliminate.
• Examinations: Regular checkups allow us to detect early signs of dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and sometimes systemic health issues before they become more serious.

Personalized Advice

• Tailored Recommendations: During your visit, our dentists will provide customized advice on improving your oral hygiene routine and addressing any specific concerns you may have.

Avoiding Common Dental Health Pitfalls

Certain habits can negatively impact your oral health. Here are some tips to avoid common pitfalls:

Smoking

• Risks: Smoking increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer and decreases salivary flow leading to dry mouth. 
• Solution: Seek support to quit smoking and improve your overall health and well-being.

Excessive Sugar Intake

• Impact: Consuming too much sugar can lead to cavities, tooth decay, and gut inflammation.
• Strategy: Opt for healthier snacks, such as fruits and nuts, and limit sugary treats to special occasions.

The Latest in Dental Technology and Services Offered at Rankin and Mingle Dentistry

We pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art dental technology and services to ensure the best possible care for our patients. Here are some of the advanced treatments and services we provide:

Advanced Treatments

• Laser Dentistry: Minimally invasive procedures for gum disease treatment and cavity removal.
• Dental Implants: Permanent solutions for replacing missing teeth with natural-looking results.

Comprehensive Services

• Cosmetic Dentistry: Teeth whitening, veneers, and smile makeovers to enhance the appearance of your smile.
• Restorative Dentistry: Fillings, crowns, and bridges to restore the function and aesthetics of your teeth.
• Family Dentistry: Gentle and compassionate care for your entire family’s needs. 

Dentist in Aurora, CO

Taking care of your smile is essential for maintaining overall health and confidence. You can achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile by following a daily dental care routine, eating a nutritious diet, scheduling regular checkups, avoiding harmful habits, and taking advantage of advanced dental treatments. We’re committed to helping you on this journey.
Please schedule an appointment with us today to experience the exceptional care and expertise of Rankin and Mingle Dentistry.