21 Jun Best Oral Hygiene Routine
We all want a bright, shiny smile to dazzle those around us. Going to the dentist is one important aspect of your dental care, and a great way to get a squeaky clean feel from professional cleanings. In between visits however, it is up to you to maintain a healthy mouth. Prescott Dentistry is here to address your oral hygiene needs, and help you come up with the best routine. We want to ensure that your oral care is the most thorough and effective. We have come up with some tips for your at home care.
1. Floss Daily
We know, we know. You’ve heard it all your life. Well, it still holds true. Flossing is a very important aspect of oral health care. It is able to reach plaque in between the teeth, limiting the possibility of tooth decay and gum disease. Once a day flossing it worth having healthier teeth and preventing mouth issues.
2. Use the Right toothbrush
It can be easy to not use the right toothbrush. Your dentist can recommend one specifically for your mouth. However, the best for adults is to use one with a small to medium sized head to comfortably get all around your mouth, especially in the back. The bristles should be soft to medium, and multi-tufted. Children need to use smaller brushes.
3. Change Your Toothbrush
It is important to recognize when to change your toothbrush. When the bristles are tired and worn out, they are not cleaning the way they should be. It is important to get a new toothbrush every two to three months for the most thorough cleaning.
4. Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride has consistently been shown to be important in toothpaste and even in water. It has been scientifically proven to prevent cavities as well as repair tooth enamel.
5. Brush Appropriately
Brushing twice a day is important. Ensure that you brush every night before bed to get off plaque from the day, and at least once throughout the day. Brushing too much can cause gum recession so it’s important not to over brush or brush too hard. When brushing, place bristles at a 45 degree angle on your teeth, brush in a circular movement on all surfaces of your teeth, inside and out. Also be sure to brush your tongue to help freshen breath and clean out bacteria.
6. Limit Unhealthy Habits
To help with your oral care, limiting unhealthy habits in your day is helpful. Sugary drinks, foods, and smoking can be a major cause to tooth decay and gum disease. If you have sugary foods/drinks, have them only at mealtimes. Best care is to limit these all together.
7. Drink Enough Water
Water is essential for your body in several ways. Not only does it help to hydrate you, it is important to keep your mouth moist. Having a dry mouth increases plaque and potential for gum disease. Water has various health benefits, but also helps maintain continual saliva production which is imperative for oral health.
Oral health care is essential in preventing plaque buildup and gum disease. Getting professional cleanings throughout the year are great for stubborn plaque buildup and to have the squeaky clean feeling. However, maintaining your mouth in between is imperative. For more information on what is best for your teeth, visit us at Prescott Dentistry and we will gladly guide you in your personal oral health needs.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/19/2017) Jorg Ramb Flickr)