Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining good oral health. Practicing good dental habits can help you prevent cavities and gum disease. Good oral hygiene includes brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly.
- Brushing your teeth
You brush your teeth multiple times a day, but are you doing it correctly? Many people often don’t brush their teeth for long enough and may not use proper brushing techniques. This can lead to tooth decay and cavities. It is important to use the proper brushing techniques in order to keep your smile healthy and avoid costly dental treatments. Here are some helpful tips on how to properly brush your teeth:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can damage your teeth and gums and lead to gum recession. The surface of your teeth can begin to look flat or worn, which can give the appearance of aging. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush that has a round head, as this will allow you to reach all areas of your mouth more easily. A multi-head powered toothbrush is also a good option as it allows you to reach more areas of your mouth at once without having to move your hand as much.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and use short strokes to gently clean the surfaces of your teeth. Make sure that you are cleaning both the front and back of your teeth as well as your tongue.
- Clean the inside surfaces of your top and bottom teeth by tilting your toothbrush vertically and making up-and-down strokes. These areas are often missed by people unless they tilt their toothbrushes vertically.
- Flossing daily
While cleaning your teeth with a toothbrush is essential, flossing is equally important. Food that’s stuck between your teeth can irritate your gums and can lead to gum disease. Flossing helps you remove the food debris that accumulates during the day in between your teeth and prevents the formation of plaque. Also, the bacteria present in plaque are responsible for causing bad breath. By flossing every day, you can reduce the chances of developing these problems. Children must be taught how to floss properly at an early age so that it becomes a regular habit for them as they grow old.
Pro tip: When flossing, make sure you don’t hurt your gums by pulling on them. Instead, slide the floss gently back and forth along the sides of each tooth to clean it.
- Regular dental check-ups
Visiting your dentist twice a year for a regular check-up and cleaning is a vital part of maintaining your oral health and protecting against future decay and disease. Your dentist or hygienist will also be able to notice any warning signs early, allowing you to take care of any issues as soon as possible. These regular visits can also help catch problems while they are smaller and easier to treat, saving you time and money in the future!Â
To learn more about dental hygiene, call Rosemont Dental in Frederick, MD, at (301) 663-114 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Askari.
