Oral Hygiene Care Tips for a Healthy and Confident Smile

They say information is power, and that’s rightly so when it comes to your oral health. The more you know about caring for your smile, the more you will have the upper hand in protecting your overall health. If you want to put on a healthy, confident smile for life, Bearley Dental in Charlottesville, Virginia, shares tips and smart ways to take care of your smile.

• Brushing your teeth: You already know this, but we will still say it anyway. Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing removes food particles and other debris, ensuring that your teeth and gums are free from plaque that invites gum disease. Brushing isn’t just a rite of passage every morning and night — be thorough in what you are doing. Consider a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. If you can get an electric toothbrush, even better because it cleans your mouth better than a manual one. Remember to brush your tongue. And finally, rinse your mouth with water to wash away the toothpaste and any debris lurking.
• Flossing daily: Flossing is another valuable tool to add to your oral hygiene regimen. Dental floss can reach areas where the typical toothbrush can’t access. Floss at least once a day. The objective is to remove food debris between teeth and at the base of the tooth. If you are unsure about the best flossing technique, consult your dentist.
• Mouth wash: Using recommended mouthwash is a great way to freshen your breath and eliminate harmful bacteria. However, a mouth wash is never a substitute for brushing and flossing your mouth — it can only complement your at-home dental care.
• Keep your mouth hydrated: Keeping your body hydrated is vital for your overall health. Your systems need water to function optimally. The same goes for your mouth. Water washes away food particles that may cause tooth decay and cavities.
• Routine dental visits: Why should I see a dentist since I observe diligent oral care at home? Good question. At-home oral care is excellent, but it’s not effective in reaching all the surfaces of your mouth. Plus, it’s virtually impossible to eliminate all the plaque and tartar in your mouth with at-home oral care only. Dentists have special tools and techniques to access hard-to-reach areas and remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup. See your dentist at least twice a year for dental cleanings and exams.
• Kick-off bad habits: Stay away from sugary foods. We know it’s difficult shunning the temptation of chocolates, candies, and cakes, but limit the intake for the sake of your teeth. Similarly, ditch any tobacco intake. Smoking increases the risk of mouth cancer, causes bad breath, and encourages gum disease. Finally, protect your teeth by wearing a night guard if you suffer from bruxism (teeth grinding).

Folks, there you have it. Follow the above oral care tips, and you will be on your way to a healthy, confident smile. Want to learn more about dental health care? Please dial (434) 443-8034 (434) 443-8034 to talk to Dr. Daniel Bearley about all your oral care needs.

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