Did you know that October is Dental Hygiene Month? This is a reminder of the importance of practicing good oral care and to celebrate and recognize all the work that dentists and dental hygienists do for our oral hygiene. Irrespective of your age, it is important to maintain a good at-home dental care routine and regular checkups and cleanings at your dental office.
In the celebration of Dental Hygiene Month, here are some tips to help you master the four routines for your dental hygiene.
Brush
Most of us already know that we need to brush at least twice a day, having the proper technique is also vital for good oral health. Make sure your toothbrush is aligned at a 45-degree angle to your gums. You should always use a gentle, tooth-wide back and forth strokes to clean each tooth.
To clean the inner surface of your teeth, rotate the brush to a vertical position and use up-and-down strokes. Also, give your tongue a good scrub with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper. Food particles and bacteria trapped in the mouth promotes tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Floss
Flossing should be a daily activity. With floss, you can clean tooth surfaces that your brush can’t reach. It makes sure that food particles or plaque aren’t trapped between your teeth.
To floss properly, gently slide the floss in a C-shape up and down between your teeth. Move to a clean section of floss and repeat until you have cleaned around each tooth. You should not put too much pressure on your gum line as it can damage the tissue.
Rinse
A good rinse plays a surprisingly big role in good oral health. A simple and quick rinse with water after each meal can help remove food particles, that help to prevent tooth decay and bad breath.
Make sure to rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash at least once a day after brushing. This can help combat bad breath and gum disease.
Chew
Chewing a sugarless gum after a meal, tea or coffee has a positive impact on oral health. It promotes the creation of saliva that helps in the defense against tooth decay. With the help of sugarless chewing gum with xylitol, you can help fight cavities, neutralize damaging plaque acids, and even strengthen enamel, all of which can lead to a healthier smile.
By adapting and mastering these four routines above, you can make sure that you are protecting your oral health. Don’t forget to book your appointments with us for regular cleanings and checkups, as getting your regular cleanings is also part of a healthy routine.