10 Oral Hygiene Tips

By following these oral health tips, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.

1. Brush twice a day, for at least minutes.

To maintain proper oral hygiene, it is recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice daily, preferably in the morning and before bedtime, for a duration of two to four minutes per session. Begin by placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and use a sweeping motion. Use a downward sweeping motion for your upper teeth and an upward sweeping motion for your lower teeth. Only brush back and forth on the surfaces used for chewing.

2. Floss every night.

It's highly recommended to floss your teeth every night before brushing them. This not only helps eliminate debris but also reduces the chances of tooth decay while maintaining healthy gums. To ensure optimal flossing, use a piece of floss that's up to 18 inches long, allowing you to use a fresh section of floss every few teeth. Remember to gently glide the floss against the teeth in a motion that creates a forward or backward 'C' shape, wrapping it around each tooth.

3. Rinse with mouthwash daily.

Incorporating mouthwash into your dental care regimen can effectively eliminate germs that accumulate in your mouth. Unlike toothbrushes and floss, mouthwash can reach areas that are difficult to access, eradicating debris that may cause gum irritation and ultimately, gum disease.

4. Brush or scrape your tongue daily.

It's important to note that bacteria can still linger on your tongue even after brushing your teeth. To combat this, it's recommended to incorporate tongue brushing or scraping into your daily routine. This not only helps eliminate bacteria, but also helps keep your breath fresh. It's crucial to use separate toothbrushes for brushing and tongue scraping.

5. Visit the dentist regularly.

Visit the dentist, at least twice a year, for a dental examination and cleaning. Dentists and hygienists have tools and techniques to clean your teeth far more thoroughly than you can at home. Regular exams also mean your dentist can find any issues that are developing sooner and offer treatment options to prevent them from getting worse.

6. Don't delay dental treatments.

Some individuals may have apprehensions that hinder them from undergoing dental treatments, while others abstain from it due to the assumption that it is expensive. However, routine check-ups and treatments are not as costly as the extensive procedures required for a dental crown or implant. Refraining from necessary treatments may result in adverse effects on your dental health and may eventually lead to higher expenses in the future.

7. Make healthy food choices and minimize sugar.

It's important to remember that the food you consume significantly impacts your overall health, including your teeth. To maintain good oral health, it's recommended to incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet, while limiting your sugar intake to prevent cavities.

Adequate amounts of calcium and Vitamin D are crucial for keeping your gums and teeth healthy. While supplements are an option, it's better to obtain these nutrients through consuming dairy products like milk, yogurt, cheese, fortified orange juice, and broccoli. Additionally, Vitamin B complex plays a vital role in protecting your gums and teeth from bleeding and cracking.

8. Limit pop, coffee, and alcohol.

Choosing the right beverages can make a noticeable difference in keeping your teeth bright and healthy. Beverages with additives like corn syrup and food dye can cause discoloration and dullness. Opting for milk, which strengthens teeth and builds stronger enamel, and water, which hydrates your body, is the best choice for maintaining a dazzling smile.

9. Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

If you play sports or other contact activities, it is recommended to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth and gums from impact or injury. Most dental offices offer custom-made mouthguards for patients to comfortably fit their smiles and keep their teeth safe from damage.

10. Avoid habits that are harmful to your teeth.

To maintain healthy teeth, it's best to avoid tobacco and other harmful substances. Additionally, try to refrain from habits like biting your nails or using your teeth to open bottle caps. If you have a tendency to suck your thumb, bite your lip, thrust your tongue, or clench your teeth, seeking advice from a dentist on treatment options is recommended.