5 Oral Hygiene Practices You Shouldn’t Skip

Since you were a child, you have been told that you need to brush your teeth twice a day in order to maintain a healthy smile. However, this isn’t the only thing that you should be incorporating into your oral hygiene routine. There are numerous factors that contribute to your oral health, but many of them are often left forgotten. Continue reading to learn about some of the best oral hygiene practices that you should include in your daily routine.

Use The Best Dental Tools

You need to choose all the right products when you brush your teeth. Always stick to a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits in your mouth comfortably. Using a brush that is too hard can cause enamel wear and gum recession, especially when used improperly. Electric toothbrushes are great for removing plaque and food debris in order to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. When choosing a toothpaste, look for one that contains fluoride.

Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly

In most cases, toothbrushes need to be replaced every three months. When the bristles become frayed, they are not as effective at cleaning away food debris and plaque. If you haven’t bought a new toothbrush for a while or the bristles don’t look to be in the best shape, now is a great time to upgrade. Pick one up next time you go to your local grocery or drug store.

Floss Every Day

Everyone knows that flossing is an important step to keep your smile clean, but not very many people do it as often as they should. There are some areas of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t reach. When you use dental floss, you can clear away food debris, plaque, and bacteria from between the teeth and beneath the gumline. This will ultimately help prevent the development of cavities, periodontal disease, halitosis, and other dental problems.

Use Mouthwash

Another step that you should consider incorporating in your dental hygiene regimen is rinsing with a mouthwash. It will help to wash away any food particles that were left behind after brushing and flossing. This way, you can be left with a fresh smile throughout your day.

See Your Dentist Regularly

Even if you are an excellent brusher and flosser, there are still going to be areas of your smile that you accidentally skip over. When you see a dentist for professional cleanings, you can ensure that you don’t have lingering plaque or tartar on your teeth. During your checkup, your dentist will be able to detect oral health issues earlier so they can be treated before becoming problematic.

By including all of these important steps into your oral hygiene routine, your smile will thank you!

About the Author

Dr. Steven E. Amburgey is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for over 15 years. He earned his dental doctorate from WVU Dental School and regularly pursues continuing education to keep his knowledge and skill sharp. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Virginia Dental Association. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Abingdon, visit his website or call (276) 258-5568.