At Town Square Dental in Pasadena, TX, we believe that an essential part of our patient’s dental treatment is education. This allows them to make educated, informed decisions in regards to their dental conditions and treatment. We often find that patients don’t know much about teeth other than they want them to be bright and healthy, so this week we’re discussing your teeth!

• About Incisors – You have eight incisors that are located at the front of your mouth. They have a sharp biting surface which is used for cutting food into smaller more chewable pieces.
• About Canines – You have four canine teeth which are located at the corners of your dental arches. They have a sharp, pointed biting surface which is used to grip and tear your food.
• About Premolars – As an adult, you will have eight premolars which are located between your canine and molar teeth. They have a flat biting surface which is used to tear and crush the food you eat.
• About Molars – As an adult, you will have twelve molars, which are the largest of your teeth and are located in the back of your mouth. They have a large flat biting surface which is used to grind, crush and chew the food you eat.

Proper At-Home Dental Care

To ensure you have optimal oral health, practicing proper dental care techniques is necessary. When selecting a toothbrush, opt for one that fits your mouth correctly and has soft bristles. Although a hard brush may seem like it can clean better, they can actually cause damage. Be sure to brush your teeth at a minimum of twice a day, spending 2 minutes brushing. Flossing is another important step; be sure to floss at least once a day. This can remove additional debris you may miss with your brush.

We all know to stay away from sugary foods for a healthy smile, but what foods make up a tooth-friendly diet? Your teeth and gums need nutrients just like the rest of your body, so eating healthy is a must to preserve your smile in the long run. Here are some ideas of food for healthy teeth to try and incorporate into your diet.

Produce

Fruits and vegetables contain nutrients that are necessary for strengthening your teeth. Not only that, but many cruciferous fruits and vegetables can help scrape away food particles and bacteria while you’re chewing. However, try keep your citrus fruit intake to a minimum, as the acid in citrus can wear away your tooth enamel over time.

Water

Water is necessary for your overall health, but did you know that it’s also good for your teeth? Not only does drinking water help to flush away food particles and bacteria, but tap water also contains fluoride, which makes your teeth stronger and helps fight cavities and tooth decay.

Dairy

Dairy such as cheese and milk contains calcium, which strengthens your teeth from the inside out. It’s especially important for younger people to eat a lot of calcium, as they have a great chance of being able to store large amounts of it in their bones.

Fatty Acids

Fish and flax seed oils contain fatty acids that help to strengthen your teeth. These fatty acids have also been shown to reduce the likelihood of gum disease, making for a healthier mouth overall.

Sugar-Free Drinks

Try to avoid sugary drinks if you want to prevent tooth decay. Water is the best beverage for you, but if you have to drink soda or juice, try to find a sugar-free variety. The acid in sugar-free soda is still bad for your teeth, so keep your soda intake to a minimum. Naturally sugar-free beverages are your best bet for healthy teeth.

Your dentist will be able to let you know if you need to make any dietary changes for a healthier, happier smile. Call Town Square Dental to book an appointment with your dentist today!