How To Practice Good Oral Hygiene?

Good oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your mouth clean and healthy. While brushing and flossing regularly is important for good oral hygiene, it is also important to visit your dentist regularly for checkups. Good oral hygiene is vital to preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

Why is it important to practice good oral hygiene?

The most common dental problem that patients face is tooth decay and cavities. The first step toward preventing them is by practicing good oral hygiene. Gum disease is another dental issue that is a prime cause of tooth loss in adults. When gum disease develops, patients may notice that they have bad breath, irritation, and even bleeding gums. If gum disease is not treated, it can worsen and progress into periodontitis. With periodontitis, patients can experience receding gums, loose teeth, and even tooth loss. So, practicing good oral hygiene is paramount to preventing gum disease and preserving oral health.

How can I practice good oral hygiene?

• Brush your teeth twice a day

Brushing your teeth twice a day is essential for good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth immediately after eating helps to remove the plaque buildup from your teeth. Brushing your teeth before bedtime helps to keep your mouth clean throughout the night, reducing the buildup of plaque and bacteria.

It is important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and to make sure you are brushing your teeth for at least two minutes each time. For best results, use toothpaste that contains fluoride.

• Floss regularly

Flossing is one of the most important parts of good oral hygiene. Flossing helps remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from areas between your teeth that a toothbrush can’t reach. Be sure to floss at least once a day, preferably at night, before you go to bed.

• Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash

An antibacterial mouthwash can help kill bacteria in your mouth, reducing plaque and gingivitis. It can also improve bad breath by killing odor-causing bacteria. Make sure to rinse with mouthwash for at least thirty seconds.

• Regular dental checkups

Regular dental checkups allow your dentist to monitor your oral health and detect cavities early. They can also help detect gum disease before it becomes severe. During your dental checkup, your dentist will perform a dental cleaning to remove any plaque or tartar buildup on your teeth before it causes deeper tooth decay.

• Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet is a foundation for a healthy smile. You should opt for whole foods instead of processed foods. This should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Processed foods tend to be high in sugar and unhealthy fats, which can increase the risk of tooth decay. A balanced, healthy diet can help your teeth stay healthy and prevent oral health problems.

• Quit smoking

Smokers have a much higher risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. This is because smoking weakens your immune system, which makes your body more susceptible to diseases. Smoking may also increase your risk of gum disease as it makes your gums more susceptible to periodontal infections.

• Avoid sugary foods and drinks

People who consume sugary foods and drinks are more likely to have cavities. Bacteria in the mouth produce acid that breaks down tooth enamel and causes cavities. While brushing after sugary meals is important, there are actually a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of decay.

• Drink water after consuming sugary foods. Water helps to neutralize the acid, thereby reducing the chances of decay.
• Brush and floss your teeth often. The more often you brush, the fewer bacteria will build up in your mouth.

If you wish to know more about good oral care tips,  make an appointment with our experts. Visit us at Steven H. Brenman DMD, 1311 Bay St, Staten Island, NY 10305. Call us to book an appointment at 718 6502199.