Unraveling the Art of Dental Self-Care

Self-care has become the coveted oasis where individuals seek refuge from life’s daily hustle. Yet, amidst the wide plethora of wellness practices, there's often an underestimated but crucial consideration to our overall health and confidence – dental self-care. At Plantation Dental SSI, Charles (Chase) T. Hopkins, III DMD encourages his patients to lean into the accessible intersection of lifestyle and dentistry. No longer relegated to the realm of routine, the care of our smiles now intertwines experiences that embrace both necessity and selective refinement.

With Dr. Hopkins’ guidance, we’ll explain how beyond the dental chair, every day can become a celebration of your smile and well-being.

Embrace Holistic Habits

While it may seem obvious and mundane, brushing and flossing your teeth are especially important to your oral and overall health. Dr. Hopkins explains “The mouth is the gateway to the entire body. Uncontrolled plaque bacteria can multiply and enter the bloodstream, affecting other parts of the body.” Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, respiratory ailments, Alzheimer's disease, and more. As for your smile, bacteria within plaque breaks down the sugars from the food and drink you consume and can turn it into acid, which then eats away at the enamel of your teeth. So, how long should you brush and floss your teeth to help prevent this from occurring? Dr. Hopkins recommends two minutes for each at least twice a day. He also urges people to visit the dentist regularly, at least twice a year for a thorough cleaning and check-up. Carefully managing your oral health is not only self-care, it is self-preservation.

Cleanse While You Chew

Spinach, lettuce, kale, and other leafy greens are excellent choices for your diet and teeth. Not only do these greens have loads of vitamins and minerals your gums and teeth love, they impressively help clean your teeth while eating them! Celery, carrots, and other crunchy vegetables are another great recommendation. “Like the leafy green vegetables, these require lots of chewing before swallowing, which helps clean the surface of your teeth. Crunchy foods that contain water are great natural teeth-cleaners because they coax the saliva in your mouth to help scrub away bacteria and food particles,” says Dr. Hopkins. Apples are considered by many as nature’s toothbrush, but pears are an optimal choice too. Chewing their fibrous texture stimulates the gums, reduces bacteria, and increases healthy saliva flow. However, you should limit the amount of fruit you consume because the sugary juices can contribute to tooth decay. Enjoy these delicious fruits in moderation.

Elevate Your H2O Game

Indulging in sodas, coffee, and alcohol may offer moments of enjoyment, but it's essential to recognize the potential toll these beverages can take on your dental health. Sugary sodas can lead to breakdown of tooth enamel. Coffee can stain your teeth, and alcohol can dry out your mouth. A lack of saliva can cause both tooth decay and oral infections. Drinking plenty of water is the healthiest and most efficient beverage to help care for your body and teeth. Water can dilute acids and wash away residue, reduce bacteria that cause bad breath, and protect your tooth enamel. Drinking two to three liters of water a day will not only make you feel better, but your teeth will look and feel stronger too.

Treat Yourself to Beautifully Aligned Teeth

A confident smile is one of the most powerful assets a person can have. Plantation Dental proudly offers Reveal Clear Aligners to help patients achieve that desired poise with straightened teeth. Dr. Hopkins says, “Unlike other foggy aligners, Reveal Clear Aligners have a virtually invisible appearance.” The product is made of a special material called ClearWear. It is a BPA-free/phthalate-free plastic and is manufactured through a proprietary process for crystal clear clarity and perfect fit. This means that when you wear them, they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, making them a discreet orthodontic option. Importantly, patients can rest easy under the care of a licensed dental practitioner and without messy at-home impression kits. Dr. Hopkins and his team use a quick and easy digital scanner to comfortably and accurately begin treatment. Complimentary consultations are offered at the dentistry practice.

Indulge in a Luminous Transformation

A bright and radiant smile leaves a lasting impression, but people often struggle to find an effective, safe solution to get the dazzling white teeth they desire. Fortunately, KöR Teeth Whitening is offered at Plantation Dental. The KöR proprietary Whitening System works by restoring your teeth’s youthful ability to absorb oxygen. The oxygen from the whitening gel is absorbed deeply into the tooth, dissolving and removing stain molecules. Dr. Hopkins adds “This is a long-lasting at-home treatment that does not use harsh lights or lasers. It’s gentle, convenient, and brightens teeth 16 shades lighter on average.”

Integrating basic hygiene and healthy food and beverage choices with cosmetic interventions provides a balanced and proactive approach to dental care. It promotes both functional health and confidence. And that’s a fine reason to smile! If you’d like help maintaining or enhancing that smile, new patients are welcome at Plantation Dental SSI. Schedule an appointment today by calling 912.638.9001 or visiting plantationdentalssi.com.

By: Shayla Sanchez and Jennifer Symmes, Plantation Dental SSI