Regular dentist visits help keep your teeth healthy with expert cleanings and examinations. Incorporating oral hygiene practices into your daily routine can help prevent dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Here are seven tips for maintaining your oral health between dentist visits:
1. Brushing Twice a Day
Dedicate time to brush your teeth twice per day and after meals. To get optimal results, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and gently brush the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and prevent bad breath.
2. Flossing Daily
While brushing helps with cleaning the large surfaces of the teeth, flossing helps access the areas between teeth and below the gum line that a toothbrush cannot reach. By removing plaque and food debris with flossing, you can reduce the potential for tooth decay and other gum-related problems. Begin flossing by taking approximately 18 inches of dental floss, wrapping it around the fingers of each hand, and moving it between your teeth. Slowly curve the floss in a C-shape around each tooth and move up and down to clean the sides of the tooth.
3. Using Mouthwash
Mouthwash deactivates germs that can cause bad breath and gingivitis. Using a mouthwash that contains fluoride helps fortify tooth enamel and prevent cavities. Mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing and flossing but a supplementary practice to maintain oral health between dentist visits.
4. Eating a Balanced Diet
The foods you consume can have a significant impact on your oral health. A nutrient-balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can nourish your body, leading to robust teeth and gums. Limiting sugary and acidic foods, like soda and juice, can reduce the risk of dental cavities and enamel erosion. Consider swapping these items with water or milk to support your oral well-being.
5. Drinking Plenty of Water
Consuming enough water each day helps promote general wellness and dental hygiene. Drinking water helps clear away remaining food particles and harmful bacteria, defending your teeth against cavities. Fluoridated water can bolster tooth enamel and help prevent tooth erosion. Consider carrying a refillable water container to remain hydrated and keep your mouth clean throughout the day.
6. Avoiding Smoking and Using Tobacco Products
Consistently consuming cigarettes and other tobacco products is a risk factor for oral health. Individuals who use tobacco products can be more prone to periodontal disease, discoloration of teeth, halitosis, and a heightened chance of developing oral cancer. Reducing your tobacco consumption can help improve your oral health.
7. Replacing Your Toothbrush Regularly
Over time, toothbrush bristles can become worn and less effective. Swap out your toothbrush at least every three or four months or when the bristles show signs of wear. A fresh toothbrush helps remove buildup of plaque and particles from your teeth, improving your oral hygiene.
Maintain Your Oral Hygiene Between Dentist Visits
Take care of your teeth and gums between dentist visits by brushing, flossing, swishing with mouthwash and eating a balanced diet. Protect your oral well-being by drinking plenty of water, limiting tobacco products and cigarettes, and avoiding sugary and acidic foods. Take steps to maintain your oral health between dentist visits to keep your smile strong and healthy.