Maintaining great oral health is important to prevent gum disease or tooth decay. It’s a lifelong responsibility that keeps your smile looking bright.
But your oral hygiene isn’t just about the health of your gums and teeth.
There is increasing evidence showing the association between mouth health and general well-being. Therefore, if you don’t take care of your oral health, you are at risk of developing problems with your gums and teeth, as well as affecting your overall health.
Luckily, sticking to a regular oral hygiene routine is straight-forward. The simple daily tasks that you can do make all the difference when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums happy!
Everybody knows to brush twice a day and use dental floss, but what else can you do to maximize your oral health? Here are some easy steps for you to follow.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Taking regular trips to the dentist is key to identifying and resolving any problems in your mouth before they go beyond the point of repair.
Ideally, you should be visiting your dentist at least twice a year. They will be able to perform routine checks to spot potential issues and provide the necessary treatments. Your dentist will also be able to give your teeth a good clean and remove hardened dental plaque known as calculus.
You can find your local dentist by making a quick search for ‘Brentwood Dentist near me’. Once you’ve found a dentist that you like, give them a call, and book yourself in for an initial check-up.
You may also want to sign up for a dental insurance plan to reduce your expenses if you expect to have a lot of procedures in the near future.
Don’t Neglect Your Tongue
Plaque doesn’t just build up on your teeth. It also builds up on your tongue. This not only leads to halitosis (bad breath), but it can increase your risk of developing gum disease.
When you brush your teeth, get into the habit of brushing your tongue as well. Most toothbrush heads have small bumps on the back which can be used to reach the front, sides, and back of your tongue.
Don’t brush too hard as this can scratch and damage the tissue in your mouth. Brush gently for 30-60 seconds and try to reach every corner of your mouth.
Use Mouthwash Daily
Mouthwash can be a great addition to your oral hygiene routine. It has antibacterial properties that can reduce the build-up of bacteria and the formation of plaques. This can decrease your risk of developing gingivitis (periodontal disease).
Mouthwash usually has a pleasant minty taste so it leaves your mouth feeling and tasting great. Swirl a small amount around your mouth after brushing your teeth before spitting all of it out. Try not to swallow any of your mouthwash!
There are a few different types of mouthwash. If you’re unsure which one is best for you, ask your dentist for their recommendations.