A proper daily oral hygiene regimen is your first line of defense against oral infections and acid erosion that can destroy your teeth and cause a host of serious overall health issues. Thankfully, it’s easy to maintain excellent dental cleaning habits after you get used to how great they make your mouth feel every day. Here’s a quick look at how to properly brush and floss your teeth and how you can develop a suitable oral care routine.
How Should I Brush My Teeth?
It’s best to brush your teeth at least twice a day, once before breakfast and once before going to bed, but it’s ideal to brush between meals as long as you wait at least thirty minutes after eating before doing so. When you brush, do so for two minutes at a time with short, gentle, circular strokes using a soft-bristled appliance and fluoridated toothpaste. This will eliminate much plaque and food residue without scratching your enamel.
How Should I Floss My Teeth?
Flossing is every bit as important as brushing for preserving your oral health, and, while flossing before bed every day is considered sufficient, it’s best to do it each time after meals and snacks. When you floss, cut twelve to eighteen inches of thread from the pack and hold a one-inch section taut between your hands. Gently slide the floss between two teeth and carefully work it against either side of the gap without pressing too hard into the gum tissue. Then, carefully remove the floss, move on to a clean section, and treat the next pair of teeth in the same manner. Continue this until you have cleaned all the spaces between your teeth.
How Can I Develop Excellent Oral Hygiene Habits?
To develop a suitable dental cleaning regimen, you may wish to experiment with a smartphone app designed to remind you when it is time to brush and floss. If you forget a brushing or flossing session, don’t get discouraged. That’s simply part of the learning process. As you get used to the benefits of brushing and flossing every day, you will probably find that neglecting these habits feels unpleasant, which will make it easier to remember your oral hygiene.
Don’t let poor oral hygiene habits set you up for painful oral infections. Seeing your dentist twice a year for checkups can help you stay on the path to maintaining a beautiful smile for life.
About the Author
Dr. Alexandria N. Arditti earned her dental degree at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and stays abreast of the latest developments in her field through continuing education coursework. She is proud to be a member of the California Dental Association. Her practice in Huntington Beach offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. To schedule your next checkup, contact her office online or dial (714) 592-4294.