Everyday Oral Hygiene Tips From a General Dentist

Visiting your general dentist is not enough to maintain good oral health. You must practice good oral hygiene at home as well. Proper oral care keeps your teeth and gums healthy in between dental appointments. If you want to know more about everyday oral hygiene, here are some tips from a general dentist.

Brushing in the back first

Concentrating on the back teeth first allows the toothpaste to lather up and soak them. Then, moving to the sides and the front teeth lets the lather continue to work in the teeth in the back. Targeting the difficult areas first makes the patient maximize the use of the toothbrush and toothpaste. The practice allows the patient to target the grooves of the molars. These teeth are prone to cavities.

Always brushing before bed

The standard number of times for brushing teeth is at least two times a day. Even so, many people still neglect brushing before bedtime. Bacteria do not rest. That is why brushing must be a ritual before bed. It strips away plaque from teeth. Flossing helps by removing bacteria and food particles from thin spaces between teeth.

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush

Using a hard-bristled toothbrush is not a healthy choice for teeth cleaning. Toothbrushes with medium to firm bristles may seem more efficient in cleaning teeth. Yet, these brushes can be abrasive enough to damage the teeth over time. A soft-bristled toothbrush is better. It is a gentle way to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing in a circular motion can get the plaque off in a quicker way.

Using a fluoride toothpaste

Looking beyond flavorings and whitening powers is healthier. Fluoride must be the main ingredient in toothpaste. It strengthens teeth and fights harmful bacteria. It also provides a protective layer for the teeth.

Using mouthwash

A general dentist would advise swishing around fluoride or antibacterial mouthwash in the mouth for about 30 seconds. This will rinse out leftover particles from brushing and flossing. Mouthwash prevents plaque formation. It also removes leftover bacteria. Using mouthwash helps in maintaining the balance in the mouth.

Drinking more water

Water is a clear, colorless, and flavorless beverage. It is the healthiest drink of all. Drinking water after each meal helps wash out the acids and sticky substances in foods and beverages. It also helps stimulate the production of saliva, which buffers the acids harmful bacteria release.

Avoiding brushing too often

A general dentist always recommends standard brushing is after every meal. Brushing teeth too many times can damage the enamel and gums. Swishing water in the mouth helps dislodge food particles. It also stimulates the production of more saliva. This neutralizes the acids from bad bacteria.

Refraining from sipping sweet beverages

Sipping sweet and rich beverages all day is not good for the teeth. The lingering sugars in the mouth feed bad bacteria. In turn, oral bacteria produce more acids. Plaque collects, and decay will start. Having sweet drinks at one time during the day is better.