Having good oral hygiene habits can help prevent tooth decay, tooth loss, and ensure that you keep a bright and healthy smile. Developing and maintaining good dental habits at home will even do more for your smile than routine visits to the dentist.
The first healthy dental habit you should follow is brushing your teeth two to three times per day, preferably after each meal. Use a soft-bristled brush (as opposed to medium or hard-bristled brushes, which can wear away tooth enamel and cause damage to the gums) and fluoride toothpaste. Avoid toothpastes that feel gritty, as they can be abrasive to the tooth enamel. When brushing, use tooth-wide circular motions and target the gum line. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, roof of your mouth, and the backs of your teeth. Change your toothbrush at least every four months.
The second foundational habit of healthy teeth is flossing daily to remove food particles and germs from between the teeth. Use about 18 inches of floss each time. When flossing, gently slide the string between your teeth and move it up and down to dislodge bacteria, then switch to the other side of the tooth. Floss between all the teeth that you can reach, and floss up into the gum line by following the curves of your teeth (but avoid snapping the floss up into the gums).
Along with flossing and brushing, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial fluoride rinse can provide extra protection against tooth decay and bacterial build-up.
Your diet can play an important role in your dental health. It’s a good habit to avoid sticky sweets and soda, which can cause tooth decay. Avoiding staining foods such as coffee and red wine can keep your teeth bright and white.
Healthy dental habits also include visiting your dentist at least every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up. The dentist will be able to catch any underlying problems with your teeth, along with removing any tartar or plaque build-up that may have accumulated between visits.
To learn more healthy tips to follow and to schedule your next dental exam in Toronto, contact the office of Dr. Nicholas Kemp today.