One of the most effective ways to preserve your smile is to uphold proper oral hygiene practices during the periods between your routine dental check-ups. This practice not only ensures a healthier smile but also contributes to an overall enhanced sense of well-being. Maintaining good oral health bolsters self-confidence and promotes better mental health. Furthermore, it enhances nutritional intake, minimizes the risk of systemic diseases, prevents oral discomfort, and refines both speech and communication. By establishing a consistent oral care routine at home, you can maintain the excellent condition of your teeth and gums between your dental visits. Now, let’s delve into the strategies for achieving this objective!
Brush Twice Daily
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day lays the groundwork for good oral hygiene. Choose a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to carefully clean all surfaces of your teeth. Brush in a circular motion, focusing on each tooth, and spend time cleaning around the gum line to remove plaque. A good rule of thumb is to get a new toothbrush every three to four months, as the bristles start to lose their shape.
Floss Regularly
Brushing by itself simply doesn’t remove all the plaque and stray food particles lingering between your teeth. That’s why flossing is key! Make it a habit to floss your pearly whites at least once a day, preferably before bedtime. Use a gentle, back-and-forth motion to clean around and between each tooth, reaching below the gumline. If traditional floss is difficult for you, try using floss picks or interdental brushes, and be sure to use them!
Using Mouthwash
Incorporating mouthwash into your oral care routine offers valuable benefits. Mouthwash helps freshen your breath, kills bacteria, and reduces overall plaque buildup. Look for an antiseptic mouthwash that carries the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval, which vouches for its effectiveness.
Consumed a Balanced Diet
Maintaining a nutritious diet not only benefits your overall health but also your oral health. Consume sugary and acidic foods sparingly, as they are major contributors to tooth decay and enamel erosion. Stick to healthy fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to keep your smile thriving. Additionally, it’s vital to drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles and stimulate healthy saliva production. This aids in neutralizing acids and protecting your teeth.
Avoid Harmful Habits
It’s no secret that your habits can impact and even harm your smile. Smoking and using tobacco in any form raise your risk of gum disease, tooth discoloration, and oral cancer. Additionally, refrain from biting your nails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth as tools, as these habits can lead to tooth fractures and damage.
Protect Your Teeth
Do you routinely participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night? If you do, you’ll want to protect your teeth. Wear a mouthguard during physical activities to prevent dental injuries. If you experience teeth grinding, known as bruxism, speak to our dentist about obtaining a custom-made night guard. This night guard will protect your teeth from excessive wear.
Maintaining consistent, good oral hygiene habits at home will help keep your smile healthier between visits for dental cleanings. Our Valley View Dental team is here to help you keep your smile healthy all year round. We welcome you to give our team a call if you have any dental concerns or to schedule your next visit!