5 Best Practices For A Healthy Smile

Good oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your teeth and gums healthy by brushing and flossing regularly. This helps to prevent oral diseases, cavities, and tooth decay. Practicing good oral hygiene can also prevent more serious health problems like heart disease and stroke. Here are a few tips for practicing good oral hygiene. 

• Brushing your teeth regularly

It is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is important since hard bristles can damage the tooth enamel and cause gum recession. In addition, brush for at least two minutes twice a day for the best results.

It is also important to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when it begins to wear out. After this time, the bristles become frayed and do not clean the mouth as well. Bacteria can accumulate on worn-out toothbrushes and lead to gum disease and tooth decay. These tips can help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent cavities and periodontal diseases. 

• Using a tongue scraper

Our tongue is covered with tiny bumps called papillae. These little papillae help keep your mouth healthy by trapping bacteria and leftover food particles that could become plaque if not cleaned away. The bacteria, if left to grow and produce acid, can damage your teeth and gums and lead to cavities. This is why it’s important to brush and scrape your tongue at least once a day!

• Flossing once a day

It is important to floss your teeth at least once a day. When you are flossing, it is important to be gentle and avoid irritating or injuring your gums. Use a gentle scrubbing motion as you gently curve the floss around each tooth in order to remove as much plaque and food debris as possible.

• Rinsing your mouth after brushing and flossing

After you’re done brushing your teeth, rinse the remaining toothpaste from your mouth using water or mouthwash. This will help remove any remaining particles left in your mouth. 

• Visit your dentist regularly

Visiting the dentist at least two times a year for checkups and teeth cleanings is the best way to prevent potentially serious dental issues. Additionally, visiting the dentist for a checkup every six months can help catch any developing conditions before they develop into serious problems. For example, an oral cancer screening can reveal early signs of the disease, which can often be treated successfully with early detection.

If you are looking for more tips for maintaining good oral health, schedule a consultation with Cascade Family Dental. We are located at 925 Corporate Center Pkwy., Suite-G, Santa Rosa, CA 95407. Contact us at (707) 635-6565 or visit our website to book an appointment.