Maintaining an impeccable level of oral hygiene is one of the best ways of preventing dental diseases. However, brushing and flossing on a regular basis doesn't guarantee excellent dental health. In addition to daily brushing and flossing, here are a few more measures you can take to maintain healthy teeth.

Don't Smoke

Smoking is one of the worst habits as far as your dental health is concerned. Here are some of the reasons smoking is bad for your teeth.

• It increases the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth
• It reduces nourishment of oral tissues, thereby making them more susceptible to bacterial attack
• It encourages jawbone deterioration
• It dries up the mouth

The combined effects of the above factors mean smoking increases the risk of dental diseases. Therefore, don't start smoking if you are a non-smoker, and quit smoking if you currently smoke.

Have Your Teeth Sealed

Some people are genetically predisposed to dental diseases. There are also people with lifestyles that encourage dental problems. If you fall in either of those groups, then talk to your dentist about dental sealing. In this treatment, the dentist uses a thin plastic material to cover up the visible portion of the tooth. This forms a protective shield over the tooth and makes it difficult for bacteria or acids to damage the teeth.

Practice a Good Diet

There are two main ways in which diet can affect your teeth. For one, sugary foods and drinks, such as candy and soda, encourage bad bacteria to thrive in your mouth and damage your teeth, so you should use them in moderation. Secondly, a good diet will build your overall immune system and make it difficult for bad bacteria to cause serious damage to your body, including your teeth. There are also specific nutrients and minerals that your teeth need to stay healthy.

Don't Use Your Teeth as a Tool

It is a bad habit to use your teeth as a tool because doing so damages the teeth. If the protective enamel on the teeth is eroded, it becomes easier for bacteria to attack your teeth and damage them. Therefore, don't use your teeth to open a beer can or cut electrical cables.

As you can see, there is a lot you can do if you want to keep your mouth and teeth healthy. Don't forget to get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months as an additional measure. To set up a professional cleaning, contact a dental clinic like Brandywine Dental Care.