Establishing a regular dental hygiene routine is necessary for healthy teeth and gums. This includes brushing and flossing at least once a day. Consulting with your dentist frequently for exams and cleanings can also be beneficial. Preventative dentistry can help you maintain healthy teeth, a beautiful smile, and lasting oral health.
The Importance of Proper Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is a form of preventative care, which means you can avoid any dental ailments like cavities, gum disease and halitosis before they even start. You can do this by keeping up with your regular dental hygiene routine and taking proper care of your teeth and gums.
Your oral health is closely associated with your overall well being. Bacteria from an infection in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream, thereby increasing the likelihood of developing heart disease and stroke.
Maintaining good oral health is essential for overall well being and can have a lasting impact on your body. Taking care of your teeth and gums is a key factor in this endeavor.
Best Ways to Improve Your Oral Hygiene
Taking proper care of your oral hygiene is essential for maintaining good dental health and keeping your smile radiant. Here are a few general tips for a healthy smile:
Brush At Least Twice a Day
Did someone tell you to brush your teeth after every meal? Big no! Brushing too often may damage the enamel on your teeth. Brushing twice a day is ideal as it avoids potential damage to your gums and teeth caused by overbrushing.
For a thorough clean after each meal and snack, it’s recommended that you rinse your mouth with plain water. Swish the liquid around your mouth to break up food particles that may have gotten stuck in between your teeth.
Should you brush the gums and tongue as well? Definitely!
Your tongue and gums can store bacteria and should be cleaned during your tooth brushing routine. You can use the same toothbrush for this or opt for a tongue scraper which is available in the oral health aisle of stores. Remember to clean your tongue regularly for better oral hygiene.
Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash Daily
Using antibacterial mouthwash helps keep away any harmful bacteria in your mouth. This can help maintain good oral hygiene, as it not only washes away food and debris, but also prevents the buildup of plaque. It is best to choose an alcohol-free formula to avoid a dry mouth sensation.
Some dentists also suggest chewing sugar-free gum as a smart way of reducing bacteria in the mouth and replenishing tooth enamel. This is because it stimulates the salivary flow which bathes the teeth with beneficial calcium and phosphate ions.
Choose Your Toothbrush (Soft-Bristled) & Replace it Often as Necessary
When it comes to teeth hygiene, there are two reliable options that offer a gentle cleansing without risking potential damage such as gum recession and enamel erosion due to excessive scrubbing. Soft-bristled and electronic toothbrushes are considered to be the most effective for maintaining clean and healthy teeth. There are numerous types of toothbrushes available, but these two offer the best results when it comes to oral hygiene.
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t just involve brushing, it also involves replacing your toothbrush every 3 months. Bacteria can build up on the brush over time, so investing in a new one is recommended. If you are unsure as to what type of toothbrush would be most suitable for you, feel free to ask your dentist at your next visit.
Visit Your Local Dentist Regularly
Visiting your local dentist on a regular basis is an important component of maintaining a healthy mouth and smile. Regular visits to the dentist can help identify potential issues early, allowing for treatments and preventative measures to be taken before bigger problems arise.
In addition, regular dental cleanings can prevent cavities and bad breath, making it easier for people to smile confidently. A visit to the dentist should include an exam, cleaning and x-rays. Additionally, most dentists will provide dental floss, mouth rinse and toothpaste.
Additional Tips!
Don’t Forget to Floss Regularly
No more lying to your dentist about flossing! It is a vital part of maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Flossing is the only way to remove food particles that become trapped between teeth during the day, thus preventing them from forming plaque.
Flossing once a day is great for your oral health as it helps reduce the accumulation of plaque and prevents cavities from forming. If you notice that your gums bleed when flossing, this may be a sign of poor gum health or gingivitis. There’s no need to be concerned – the more you floss, the healthier your gums will become, leading to fewer episodes of bleeding in the future.
People with dental work, sensitive or inflamed gums should consider investing in a waterpik flosser as it provides an easier way of flossing. The device works by producing ajet of water that is aimed at the teeth and gums, to remove plaque and small food particles.
Don’t Make Your Coffee Like Your Water
Many people enjoy their morning cup of coffee, but are you aware of the potential damage it can cause to your teeth? Coffee has an acidity level that is much higher than water and if you make your coffee like your water, you could be putting yourself at risk for tooth decay.
By understanding the differences between coffee and water and properly preparing your cup of coffee, you can ensure that you don’t have to worry about harming your teeth.
For those who can’t give up on their coffee, it is advised to change the way they consume it. Using a straw to drink coffee ensures that your teeth don’t come in contact with the beverage, thus minimizing tooth damage.
Taking care of your oral health starts with a good oral hygiene regimen. Brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly can help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. These steps are essential for having optimal oral health.
Having regular check-ups at the dentist is one of the best ways to keep your oral hygiene in check. If you have any questions or wish to purchase oral health related products, you can consult with your dentist and get professional advice. Early detection and treatment of dental issues can help prevent them from turning into major problems
Contact us at Monahan Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to learn how we can help you maintain a beautiful smile!
