You’re told how to have good dental hygiene all the time: brush twice daily, floss, limit sugary treats. But what does all that really mean? When you’re given a list of instructions with only a little explanation, it can be hard to know if you’re doing it right. Luckily, we’re here to help.
Brush twice a day every day (the right way)
You need to brush twice a day – morning and night. The usual advice is that it should be after breakfast and right before bed. But the truth is, the evening brush just needs to be after you’re done eating for the night.
Take your time as you move the brush around your mouth, holding the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, and move it in a gentle, circular motion. Make sure to brush each tooth and use a fluoride toothpaste.
And don’t forget your tongue. Give it a good scrape to remove bacteria and food that linger there and can cause bad breath.
Do the floss (not the dance)
Flossing is as important as brushing because it removes bits of food that get stuck between your teeth and below the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach. Give yourself a long piece of floss, wrap it around your middle fingers, and slide it between each tooth. Move it back and forth and below the gumline before sliding it back out and moving on to the next tooth. Get between each tooth, even (and perhaps especially!) the ones in the back.
Use a good mouthwash
Mouthwash is another tool to get to that hard to reach plaque that your toothbrush can’t reach. Use a quality mouthwash and swish it between your teeth, over your gums and around your tongue for at least 30 seconds after you brush each time.
Change your brush regularly
Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, it still needs to be changed regularly. We recommend changing it every three to four months, but most brushes have bristles that change color to indicate when to change them. If yours indicates an earlier change, go ahead and change it.
Limit sugary foods and drinks
Sugar plays a huge role in tooth decay and cavities. Limiting it can cut down on the chances of getting cavities or needing other dental treatments like root canals, crowns, and dentures. And if you do indulge, wait at least an hour after consuming before you brush. The sugar softens your tooth enamel so brushing can actually cause damage instead of preventing it.
Drink plenty of plain water
Aside from the fact that most drinks that aren’t plain water are filled with sugar, a dry mouth can help cause tooth decay. By sipping on plenty of water throughout the day, you not only avoid the sugar but you also keep the mouth moist. It’s a win-win for your teeth.
See the dentist twice a year
Your day-to-day hygiene habits are crucial to keeping your teeth healthy. But if you don’t follow them up with regular dentist appointments, your efforts may be wasted. Consistent visits, at least twice per year, can help identify, correct, and even prevent tooth trouble before it gets too bad. Plus, if there’s anything you’re not doing quite right, your dentist can help you correct it so you can keep your mouth healthy and happy.
Clean teeth are about much more than just a pretty smile. Your oral health is a window into the health of the rest of your body. Having proper dental hygiene keeps your mouth and the rest of your body vibrant and healthy.
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