Having a daily dental routine can help you avoid unwanted trips to the dentist and save quite a bit of money. Preventative care is always less expensive than emergency care, and good oral hygiene can positively impact your overall health to help prevent more serious issues. It is not necessarily about having a perfect smile, but more about having healthy and strong teeth that will last a lifetime.
Here are some steps you should take every day to keep your mouth clean and healthy:
Brush your teeth properly at least twice a day
When brushing, preferably use fluoride toothpaste since this will help prevent tooth decay. Gently brush all surfaces of your teeth to remove any plaque and remember to replace your toothbrush approximately every 3 months.
Floss your teeth at least once a day
Make sure to floss in between all teeth, and don’t forget the molars at the very back of your mouth! You can use regular floss, floss picks or even a waterpik. Up to 40% of the tooth surface is cleaned by flossing!
Don’t forget to clean your tongue
Another place where plaque can accumulate is on your tongue, so it’s important to always clean it. You can brush your tongue with a toothbrush or scrape it with floss or a tongue scraper. Cleaning your tongue also decreases bad breath.
Rinse with mouthwash after you finish cleaning
Mouthwash will help kill bacteria and fight plaque. You can use your mouthwash twice a day, just swish it in your mouth for about 30-60 seconds.
Visit your dentist regularly
Get a professional cleaning every 6 months and have your dentist check your mouth for any abnormalities. It is always best to spot potential problems before they surge and cause pain or irreparable damage.
Be conscious of what you eat
Try to limit the number of sugary foods and drinks in your diet to help prevent cavities. If you’re not wearing braces, chewing sugar-free gum can create more saliva in your mouth to help protect enamel after snacking.
Do you think it’s time for your next dental appointment? Schedule an appointment with one of our Risas’ doctors.
