What is a Good Oral Hygiene Routine?

Despite being anxious or nervous about going to the dentist, you need to see your dentist regularly for optimal dental health. With good oral health, you can enjoy life to the fullest. You can smile wide and eat your favorite foods with ease.

It’s never too late to develop a good oral health routine. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Brush Daily

Aim to brush your teeth twice a day: in the morning and at night before you go to bed. Fluoride toothpaste can protect your teeth from decay. Brushing will help remove plaque, which can build up and cause gum disease.

When brushing, angle your toothbrush toward the gum line so you get both your teeth and gums super clean. Do not scrub; instead, use gentle, circular motions to brush your teeth. Brush all sides of each tooth and remember to replace your toothbrush when the bristles get worn.

Floss Daily

Food and other particles can get stuck in between teeth, so be sure to floss daily. If you fail to do so, your gums can be painful and start bleeding. These are signs of gingivitis. Brushing and flossing can help reverse the signs.

Floss by taking two feet of floss and wrapping it around your middle fingers. Grip the floss between the thumb and index finger of each hand. Place the floss between the teeth until it reaches the gumline. Curve the floss around the side of each tooth, then slide it up and down under the gums. If flossing is difficult for you, you can try plastic dental picks instead.

Follow a Healthy Lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle can reduce sugar, stains, and damage to teeth. Eat a healthy diet low in sugar to avoid cavities. Try to avoid sweets and sodas. Avoid smoking. Tobacco stains teeth and increases your risk of gum disease. Alcohol use can also have effects. Alcohol contains sugars and acids that can coat your teeth surfaces, leading to tooth decay and even loss. Drug use can mess up the teeth as well.

See the Dentist

Even if your teeth feel fine, you should schedule checkups every six months for optimal oral health. The hygienist will deep clean your teeth, removing tartar and brushing them with a high-powered brush. They will also do a thorough flossing. Your dentist may also take X-rays to ensure everything is looking fine and there are no signs of disease.

Contact Our Ypsilanti Dentist Office Today

Establishing an oral health routine now can prevent dental issues down the road. By taking simple steps such as brushing, flossing, and seeing a dentist regularly, you can keep your teeth healthy for life.

You do not have to worry when you choose Comprehensive Dentistry. At our office, pain is not part of the equation. Schedule an appointment today by calling (734) 390-4337 or filling out the online form