10 Oral Health Tips for Busy Professionals

When you have back-to-back meetings and important projects to complete, your oral hygiene may fall to the back of your mind. But no matter how busy your job gets, it’s vital to maintain healthy habits to keep your smile in good shape. Here are 10 helpful oral health tips to take care of your teeth and gums, even on the most stressful of workdays.

• Don’t Skip Your Morning Routine

We’ve all been there — you’re rushing out the door, focused on all the things you have to complete in the day ahead of you, so you cut your morning oral health routine short to save some precious seconds. But brushing for a full two minutes before leaving the house will set you on the right track for your busy day and protect your smile from cavities and gum disease.

• Pack Tooth-Friendly Snacks

When your schedule is jam-packed, it always helps to keep healthy snacks on hand. Opt for crunchy veggies or other nutrient-dense foods that will benefit your smile.

• Stay Well Hydrated

Hydration is key to saliva production, which supports oral health in several ways. Drinking plenty of water also helps wash away food particles and minimizes bacteria growth in the mouth.

• Keep Floss On Hand

Flossing after meals keeps your mouth squeaky clean and ensures that you’ll never be seen with a big piece of spinach between your teeth. Keep floss in your desk drawer, car console, or purse, and use it throughout your day.

• Chew Sugar-Free Gum

If you don’t have time to brush and floss after lunch, pop a piece of sugar-free or xylitol gum in your mouth. It will help freshen your breath, remove food debris, and stimulate saliva production while keeping sugar intake to a minimum. (Note, if you have any symptoms of TMJ pain, steer clear of gum.)

• Embrace Mouthwash

Likewise, mouthwash is a good alternative to brushing and flossing at midday if time is tight. Choose a mouthwash that includes fluoride to keep your teeth strong. Some recommendations are Therabreath and Closys.

• Limit Coffee and Tea

An afternoon caffeine boost may help energize you, but heavy coffee and tea consumption will also stain your teeth. To maintain your pearly whites, skip the extra cup of joe. Another option is to drink through a straw.

• Reduce Your Stress Levels

Stress can negatively affect every aspect of your well-being, including your oral health. Schedule a brief afternoon meditation session or take a ten-minute walk to destress and have a moment of peace.

• Don’t Ignore Oral Health Concerns

When your plate is full at work, it’s tempting to avoid taking time out of your day to see the dentist, even if you know something is wrong. However, putting off oral care can cause bigger problems down the line. If you have a toothache or other dental concerns, make an appointment to address things right away.

• Schedule Regular Check-Ups with Your Arlington, VA, Dentist

No matter how busy you get, make time for routine cleanings and dental exams. Dr. Matney and the rest of the team at Ballston Dental Care are here to make sure that your smile is healthy. At Ballston Dental Care, we know your time is valuable, which is why we offer same-day treatment post-diagnosis. Schedule your next appointment with us today, and follow our blog for more oral health tips!