While brushing and flossing are two significant parts of any dental hygiene routine, there are a few other things that can be done to help keep both teeth and gums healthy for your overall well-being.

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day.

Good oral hygiene starts with regular maintenance of your teeth and mouth. Brushing twice a day, for two-minutes at a time, will help reduce plaque. Patients that have children should start teaching them this concept at a young age while keeping it engaging and fun.

Proper techniques are important not only to assure that the teeth are being cleaned properly but to also ensure you are not causing any damage to the soft tissue surrounding them. In small circular motions, angle the head of the brush toward the gums. Ensure that you clean every surface including the front and the back of your teeth and your gum line.  Some patients may find using an electric toothbrush helps as well.

2. Floss Daily.

It is recommended to floss every night before brushing to remove everything your toothbrush is unable to loosen. Most patients admit to never doing this; however, this is a very important aspect of a healthy habit. If you merely brush and decide that you don’t need to floss, food particles and other items that remain in your mouth that are missed by brushing can potentially lead to decay. To prevent this, make sure to take two minutes a day to incorporate flossing into your routine. While flossing, make sure to slide it up and down along the entire tooth.

Don’t skip tight spaces; this is one of the most important places to floss because your toothbrush can’t reach these areas.

3. Replace Your Toothbrush.

Replacing your toothbrush every three to six months or sooner if the bristles are damaged or fray. Damaged or frayed toothbrushes can’t clean the surface of your teeth correctly and can cause damage to your gums. Always rinse your toothbrush well and store it so it can dry

4. Visit the Dentist Regularly.

With regular dental appointments, your dentist will be able to prevent issues before they start, or at least catch them early. Regular dental visits also allow your teeth to get a thorough professional cleaning twice a year, removing any buildup of plaque and tartar, which helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

5. Eat a Balanced Diet.

Avoiding sweetened foods such as pop, sports drinks, and candy, and including foods high in calcium will help to support strong and healthy teeth. Some foods that will help to strengthen your teeth include leafy greens, almonds, yogurt, and cheese. Speak to your Milton dentist for recommendations that will help keep your teeth strong.

6. Use Dental Hygiene Products.

While the foundation of preventive dental health includes brushing and flossing, supplemental aids may help to increase the health of your teeth and mouth. Examples include mouthwash, oral irrigators, interdental cleaners, and tongue cleaners.

7. Stay Hydrated.

Good hydration is great for your overall health however hydration also supports proper saliva production. Saliva promotes dental health because it helps to move food material through the mouth and into your esophagus, rather than allowing food materials to hang around in your teeth where bacteria colonize. This helps keep the mouth moist and comfortable.

8. Avoid Smoking.

Smoking causes several problems such as tooth discoloration and increases the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. Quitting best thing to do to help improve your health and reduce oral and health risks.   

9. Consider Dental Sealants.

Dental sealant is a material placed on the fissures of your molars and premolars. It helps prevent cavities and plaque from forming on your teeth. Sealants will benefit most people, but children and teenagers are good candidates as they struggle with brushing when compared to adults.

10. Check Your Mouth at Home.

Patients should make it a routine to examine their teeth and gums between dental visits. You will want to look at your teeth and gums, noting anything that has changed or doesn’t seem normal. Be sure to share any of this valuable information with your dentist at your next visit, or call your Milton dental office if you find something that concerns you.

The information provided is for general information purposes only and not intended to replace professional care. Please consult your physician or dentist for advice and diagnoses so you can be properly treated for your specific situation.