You want to take excellent care of your smile but have a sweet tooth that won’t be denied. Ice cream and gelato, anyone?
Fortunately, it’s okay to indulge now and then, but take a few precautions to protect your teeth from the sugary goodness.
In this blog, we explore moderation and enjoyment. We also provide tips to help you keep your smile healthy and beautiful, even if you have a sweet tooth.
So, live your best life with the occasional treat along the way. We are here to guide you!
Your Smile Health: Moderation Is Key
Whether you enjoy a gelato during the warmer months from area favourite Augustus Gelatery, which is right next door to our dental clinic, or a specialty coffee and sweet roll from Sussex St Coffee, it really is okay.
Sometimes, we all deserve a little treat.
However, it’s important to take care of your smile soon after. Consider these helpful tips:
- Brush and Floss: Brush and floss soon after, but wait at least 30 minutes for debris to wash away naturally. You don’t want to spread cavity-causing sugars and acids around your mouth.
- Rinse: After enjoying your well-deserved treat, rinse and spit to remove debris from your teeth and gums. This is especially important if you can’t brush and floss for the next several hours.
- Travel Kit: Consider carrying a small bottle of mouthwash or other oral hygiene supplies on the go.
- Visit the Dentist: Maybe you’ve indulged more than usual? If so, consider booking your next check and clean in Pascoe Vale, VIC.
- Talk to Us: If you have questions about your oral health between checks and cleans or if you notice oral health changes, such as tooth sensitivity, we want to hear from you.
Best Practices for At-Home Dental Care
Whether your sweet indulgence is Gusto Bakery in nearby Strathmore or you prefer the gelato right here in Pascoe Vale, it’s crucial to take care of your teeth after visiting these establishments.
Brushing Your Teeth
All of us get busy sometimes, and brushing and flossing may suffer. These important hygiene sessions are rushed, and we don’t spend enough time on them.
Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice daily. Add an extra session if you eat before bed. You should also spend at least two minutes cleaning every tooth on all surfaces.
Unless otherwise directed by your dentist, use approved fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
Flossing Your Teeth
Everyone has a slightly different alignment, and some teeth are closer together than others. In tight spaces, be sure not to force or tug your dental floss. You should also use fresh sections of string as you move along.
Dental floss can be string or water. The choice is yours.
Rinses
You can rinse your mouth periodically with a mild mouthwash or fluoride rinse. Be sure the Australian Dental Association approves the rinse you choose.
You can talk to your dentist or a team member for brand-specific advice.
Hydration
Hydration is crucial to dental health and whole body wellness.
As far as your teeth and gums, it is water that washes the acids and sugars away from your enamel before cavities form. Keeping your mouth hydrated is key even if you don’t have a sweet tooth.
If you’re in a situation where it will be hours before your next glass of water, consider sugarless gum, which promotes salivary production to help clean your dental enamel.
When to Visit Your Dentist in Pascoe Vale
Your dentist provides custom treatment schedules for patients based on their oral health profile and lifestyle. Most patients visit us twice yearly or every six months for checks and cleans.
If you notice any changes in your oral health between these visits, or if you want to discuss elective treatments, such as professional teeth whitening, we encourage you to book a consultation.
Been Away from the Dentist for a While? Here’s What to Expect
If you have not been to the dentist in a while, you can expect a judgement-free welcome from the team at Lumino Smiles. Our only aim is to help you reestablish care.
If it’s been years since you’ve received dental care, we may start you with a consultation to address or plan any potential treatments you might need.
Typically, we perform a comprehensive dental exam that includes your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. This includes an oral cancer screening.
If time allows, you’ll receive a professional teeth cleaning, which is your best defence if you have a sweet tooth! Your teeth cleaning removes debris and tartar that can lead to tooth decay, dental infections, and gum disease.
Checks and cleans are non-invasive undertakings. You relax in the dental chair while we care for your smile.
We also set aside plenty of time for you to speak with the dentist and ask questions. We’ll share all the findings with you and outline treatment options so you can make informed decisions about your smile.
Ready to Arrange a Booking with Your Pascoe Vale Dentist?
If you’re ready to book an appointment with the dentist or have questions for our team, we welcome your call today at (03) 8338 4410. You can also book online.
Remember to check out our current dental specials!
You'll find Lumino Smiles right next door to Augustus Gelatery, George Jones Eatery and Rose Water Cafe & Dessert Bar. Yes, we are a dental clinic surrounded by sweet treats and delicious foods, and we could not be happier.