October is National Dental Hygiene Month to raise awareness of the ways to have a healthy smile! Good oral health practices are key to maintaining strong teeth, fresh breath, and ensure proper overall physical health!
To celebrate Dental Hygiene Month, the North Boulder Dental Group of dentists and hygienists offer a list of top dental tips to maintain your oral health!
Brush Up on Technique
Regular brushing is always top of the list of how to maintain good oral health! Use your brush (whether manual or electric) at a 45-degree angle toward the gum line to help bristles get in spaces and move away plaque and debris. Gently brush the outside and inside of teeth, plus your tongue, twice each day for two full minutes for the quickest way to a healthy smile.
Floss Forever
Flossing between teeth every day is another essential tip to oral wellness. Do you forget to floss? Mornings can sometimes be too hectic to floss, so do it before you go to bed instead. Another way to remember this healthy habit is to tie floss at the base of your toothbrush. Floss between each tooth, and behind the very back teeth, and then rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash.
Mouthwash Makeover
Rinsing with mouthwash is a quick, easy way to finish out your daily brushing and flossing routine. While water will swish away the particles dislodged from brushing and flossing, mouthwash can offer an added layer of protection. Mouthwash with fluoride helps reduce cavities, antibacterial mouthwash can aid in fighting gingivitis, and minty mouthwash freshens breath. Choose the mouthwash that’s right for you!
Keep Sugars Away
If you drink soda pop or eat sweets, get into the habit of having a travel toothbrush ready! Brushing your teeth and rinsing with water will help remove some sugars and neutralize acids in your mouth. Better still, avoid the hidden sugars in many drinks and candies and reach for water and fruit instead!
Bristle Bonus
Are the bristles of your toothbrush frayed or splayed out? Is the color indicator or your electric toothbrush head now white? These are signs that you need to replace your toothbrush. When brushes are worn they not only are much less effective, they can irritate from scraping and poking your gums. Always use a soft toothbrush as many toothbrush heads are too hard and can cause damage to gums!
A Dental Date
No oral health tip list would be complete without stressing the importance of visiting the dentist regularly for a checkup and cleaning. Recommended twice a year, a dentist visit will provide you with a needed checkup of your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth. Your teeth should last a lifetime, and your dentist can help you achieve that goal. A thorough cleaning from the dental hygienist will make your smile bright and help you feel great! Contact us to schedule your next appointment!