Everyone knows that twice-daily brushing, along with daily flossing, is essential for good oral hygiene. However, while brushing and flossing are the most important parts of your at-home dental care routine, there’s more to it than that. It’s also important to choose the right tools for the job and make sure your whole mouth is clean as well as your teeth and gums. Check out these oral care tips to learn more.
Use Fluoride Products Throughout Life
Fluoride is important for protective kids’ teeth, but it remains important throughout your entire life. Fluoride is a naturally-occurring mineral that helps harden your tooth enamel and protects teeth from decay, so it’s always important to use a fluoride toothpaste.
Your dentist may suggest you use other fluoride products, such as a mouthwash if your tooth enamel is worn.
Take Care of Your Toothbrush
Toothbrushes need good care in order to do their job effectively. To keep your toothbrush in good shape, rinse it out well after use, and store it in an upright position. Toothbrushes should be stored in the open, where fresh air can circulate and keep the bristles dry. This helps keep bacterial growth down.
For best results, your toothbrush should be replaced every three months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. For children, it may be necessary to replace the toothbrush sooner so it’s important to keep an eye on its condition.
Brush Your Tongue and Cheeks
Brushing your tongue and the insides of your cheeks is important because it helps reduce the number of bacteria present in your mouth. Brushing your tongue also helps eliminate bad breath and helps your mouth feel fresher.
A good option to make this easier is to use a toothbrush with a built-in cheek and tongue cleaner and use them every time you brush.
Make Good Beverage Choices
The food you eat can harm or protect your teeth, and the same is true of the drinks you choose, too. Sugary beverages, carbonated beverages, and alcohol are all harmful to teeth and increase your risk of tooth decay.
Try to choose less of these, and instead go for water, milk, and fresh juices, rather than soda and sugar-laden drinks.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Although at-home care is vital for good oral health, your dentist has an important role to play too, especially when it comes to protecting against gum disease. Regular checkups are the best way to make sure your teeth stay in great shape for life.
If you are seeking quality dental care in Brea, Tustin, Los Alamitos, or Pico Rivera call Mehta Dental Group today!