While regularly attending your scheduled dental exams is extremely important, it is crucial to practice correct dental hygiene at home. Continue reading for more information and tips on how to best manage your dental health and take care of your teeth at home.
Brushing And Flossing
We all know brushing twice a day, accompanied by flossing and rinsing with mouthwash, helps keep our mouths healthy and free of harmful bacteria! But for most people, this may just be all they know about tooth brushing. It is extremely important to know the specifics when it comes to managing your oral health.
Perhaps one of the most important steps in promoting proper oral home care is to select the correct type of brush. Brushes with softer bristles are usually recommended, as brushes with hard bristles can irritate the gums as you brush. If you are not sure about which type of brush would suit you best, consider speaking to your dental hygienist about what they recommend for you. Every mouth is different, and no one knows better than your trusted dental professionals. Remember to get a new brush every three to four months, as a worn-out brush does no good for your teeth and gums.
Many dental professionals will recommend trying an electric toothbrush, as they are designed to clean the mouth in the most efficient way. On the debate of a manual versus an electric toothbrush, it does boil down to user preference. However, in most cases, electric toothbrushes generally perform more thoroughly than manual brushes.
When brushing, move your brush back and forth in a gentle manner, making sure to brush all surfaces of each tooth. This includes the outside, inside, and chewing surfaces. Ensure you reach the furthest point of the teeth in the back of the mouth by angling your brush. Allow yourself a full two minutes to thoroughly brush. When you are finished brushing your teeth, brush your tongue to remove bacteria from its surface.
Diet
Your diet has a massive effect on your dental health! Foods that have a high amount of sugar or strong acidic qualities have the potential to eat away at the tooth enamel. Individuals who sip on coffee, iced tea, or soda throughout the day have a higher risk of developing tooth decay. This is due to the constant exposure of the teeth to acidic and abrasive conditions created by these beverages.
Using the information you have learned here, you will be able to better manage your oral health at home. Consult the team at Summer Dental in Oklahoma City, Norman or Yukon to determine if they have any personalized recommendations based upon the status of your oral health. Call or text Summer Dental to schedule your appointment!
