A trusted Palm Beach Gardens dentist would tell you that achieving a healthy smile takes a lifetime of care. Even if you have nice teeth, taking the proper steps to care for them can keep your mouth clean and disease free. Establishing and maintaining a good oral hygiene routine helps you stop oral health issues such as cavities, bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Additionally, research suggests that oral health is linked to whole body health. Bacteria from an infection in your mouth can enter the bloodstream and reach other areas of your body, resulting in other health issues such as cardiovascular disease and stroke. To help you achieve long-lasting overall health, we’ve compiled these oral hygiene tips to ensure a more thorough clean.
Dental professionals recommend changing your toothbrush every two to three months or as soon as you notice the bristles are frayed. If you’re using a hard-bristled toothbrush, you’ll want to replace it with soft bristles. Although medium- and hard-bristled toothbrushes may seem effective at cleaning your teeth, they can be abrasive and damaging to your tooth enamel over time.
Tilt the brush at a 45-degree angle against your gum line and brush in short, circular motions. Since brushing too vigorously can hurt your teeth and gums, it’s best to use a gentle amount of pressure as you clean your teeth.
No matter which toothpaste version you choose, use one that contains fluoride. This substance remains a mainstay in oral health because it protects teeth against decay. Besides providing a protective barrier for your teeth, fluoride eliminates germs that lead to decay and cavities.
Since brushing too often can cause damage to your gums and tooth enamel, experts confirm that brushing twice a day is enough. They also recommend rinsing your mouth with plain water after every meal and snack. While at it, be sure to do some vigorous swishing so you can force the liquid between your teeth and dislodge any food debris.
Your molars are more susceptible to gum disease and cavities because of their nooks and crannies. For this reason, you’ll want to give your back teeth the attention they deserve by beginning your brushing routine in the rear. Start brushing the upper side in the back so you won’t miss any spots.
Since brushing alone won’t allow you to clean the spaces between your teeth, it’s best to floss once daily. Besides getting little pieces of food off your teeth, flossing reduces plaque, stimulates your gums, and minimizes gum inflammation. If you have dexterity issues, you may use dental picks and interproximal brushes to clean hard-to-reach areas. However, it’s worth noting that while water flossers can remove large pieces of debris, they can’t eliminate the biofilm from teeth surfaces.
Your tongue is like a sponge that holds bacteria. For this reason, it’s best to brush your tongue whenever you brush your teeth gently. You can also use a tongue scraper to ensure thorough cleaning.
Besides washing away the remaining traces of food and debris, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing removes plaque and keeps harmful bacteria at bay. Moreover, use an alcohol-free formula to prevent xerostomia or dry mouth.
At Smiles in the Gardens, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Contact us today to make an appointment.
