Optimize your at-home oral hygiene routine to promote ideal dental health. Use the following five tips to get the most out of your daily routine.
Brush Properly – Tilt the toothbrush so that the bristles point to the gum line and brush in tooth-wide strokes for the front surfaces of all teeth. Then hold the brush vertically to clean the back of teeth. Finally, brush the tops, or chewing surfaces thoroughly. This process should take two minutes and be performed in the morning and before bedtime. Add another brushing if you are consuming foods or drinks that are high in sugar.
Floss Daily – Set a time, preferably in the evening, to floss. Flossing removes food particles caught between teeth that can leave bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Use a Mouthwash or Dental Rinse – Washing out your mouth once or twice per day can add another layer of protection for your teeth and gums. Several ADA approved products will meet your specific needs; some help rid the mouth of bacteria or bad breath, while others provide fluoride protection or prevent dry mouth.
Drink Plenty of Water – Drinking water also rinses out the mouth and helps clear bacteria while reducing your intake of more harmful beverages. Never brush immediately after consuming sodas or citrus juices as they are high in acid. Because this acid causes tooth enamel to become fragile, brushing right away can wipe some of this precious material away. Rinse with water instead.
Eat Crisp Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts, and Dairy – When it comes to eating healthy, what’s good for the body is good for your smile, and vice-versa. Limiting snacks high in sugar or starch, and replacing them with apples, carrots, celery, nuts, yogurt, and cheese help strengthen teeth and keep them clean.
When you are vigilant about the care of your teeth and gums, your risk of damage is greatly reduced. Protect your smile by seeing your dentist twice per year and wear a mouth guard when participating in sports to reduce your chances of injury. Visit us at Windsor Park Dental for more information and a professional cleaning and exam.