Dentist in Corpus Christi: How to Care for Teeth at Work

When you’re in a rush in the morning and frantically trying to get the kids dressed for school, make breakfast for the family, and make sure everyone is out the door at the right time, it can be easy to forget to brush your teeth before leaving the house. However, every morning you walk out the door without cleaning your teeth increases the risk you will develop cavities or gum disease. If you are looking to balance your hectic schedule with taking care of your oral health, you will want to read these preventive dental care tips from a dentist in Corpus Christi below.

Why You Should Skip the Morning Cup of Coffee

It may sound crazy, but skipping the normal cup of coffee – or two – in the morning will actually help preserve your teeth. Dark-colored drinks like black coffee and tea can stain tooth enamel over time, giving you a yellow, less attractive smile. In any work setting, whether it is an office, retail shop or service industry job, a confident, bright smile is key to making a good first impression with customers, clients or colleagues. If you can’t kick the caffeine habit, at least rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth after drinking coffee to remove the potentially yellowing pigments from your teeth.

Keep Dental Supplies Nearby

If you often forget to brush your teeth in the morning – or simply don’t have the time – then it’s a good idea to keep dental supplies nearby. Whether in the glovebox of your car, your purse or laptop carrier, or your desk drawer, keeping dental supplies handy helps ensure you can maintain proper oral care every day. Basic dental care items to keep on hand include:

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Mouthwash

Skip the Sugary Snacks

Many workplaces have vending machines stocked with candy and other sugary junk foods, while others provide a variety of snacks on a weekly basis. If you often crave a mid-afternoon snack, consider bringing your own healthy foods like a banana, grapes or an apple, instead of consuming sugary treats that can contribute to tooth decay. In addition, try chewing gum to stave off hunger until the end of the workday – just be sure it’s the sugar-free variety.

The chaos and stresses of modern daily life can make it difficult to maintain proper oral hygiene habits. However, maintaining a healthy mouth is key to one’s quality of life and overall bodily health. Be sure to follow the above recommendations from a dentist in Corpus Christi to help you stay smiling long after you retire.

About the Author

A proud graduate of the Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. John T. Thompson has offered high-quality dental care to Corpus Christi residents for over 30 years. Dr. Thompson’s passion and pursuit of excellence have led him to be awarded a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry – an honor that places him in the top 7% of dentists nationwide. Dr. Thompson and his team can be contacted online or by telephone at 361-242-3151.