An Important Aspect of Your Oral Health

While your family dentist is there to provide oral checkups and preventative and restorative care, the majority of your overall oral health lies squarely on your shoulders. It is important, therefore, that you know how to take care of your teeth on a regular basis so that your checkups are more positive and productive.

Regular dental visits are just one piece of your oral health puzzle. In addition to visiting your family dentist at least two times each year, there are steps you can take to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy and serve you for many, many years.

Brushing

Clearly, every person learns to brush their teeth at a very young age. However, attention needs to be paid to proper brushing. A quick once-over in the morning will not suffice for good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth should take at least two minutes to be effective at removing bacteria and inhibiting plaque. When brushing your teeth, work your way all the way around the mouth, paying special attention to the teeth located at the back of your mouth as well as your tongue. While you want to brush thoroughly, you want to also go easy on delicate gum tissue. Use a soft bristle brush and a light hand when cleaning teeth at home. Using fluoride toothpaste is a great way to get an extra layer of protection against cavities. Powered toothbrushes are even better!

Flossing

While it’s easy to get into the habit of brushing, flossing is where many people still fall short. It is an important step to floss after meals and before brushing your teeth. Flossing can make all the difference in a healthy mouth, and takes only a few moments a day to do. Flossing can be done with standard string floss or with a tool such as a water pick.

Mouthwash

Mouthwash is not only a way to keep your breath fresh; it also can prevent plaque from forming at the gum line. Find a mouthwash that contains fluoride to protect from cavities, and ingredients that will kill bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease.

By taking extra care between your dental checkups, you can feel confident that you are doing your part to enjoy a sparkling and healthy smile for years to come.