1. Toothpaste

We have been told since we were young that we should brush our teeth twice a day. It is a habit our parents and dentists encouraged us to form as far back as when we were toddlers. Choosing toothpaste can seem overwhelming as you stroll down the grocery store aisle with dozens of options. You may have a lot of questions. Maybe you are not sure what to look for in toothpaste, or perhaps you wonder How to Treat Halitosis Naturally? Whatever your questions, your dentist can provide a recommendation to help. The American Dental Association (ADA) selects toothpaste they approve for daily use.

 2. Brush

Brushing your teeth at least twice per day for two minutes each time is the best daily habit for caring for your oral health. Plaque builds up on teeth and can usually be removed with regular brushing. Plaque is a layer of bacteria that is hard to see but harmful to your teeth and gum health. As plaque worsens into tartar, it can no longer be removed by brushing. Both plaque and tartar can lead to diseases.

A soft-bristled toothbrush that is either manual or powered will do. You can ask your dentist for a recommendation if you want a powered toothbrush, or you can look for the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Approval to ensure you are making a good choice. As you brush, do not brush too hard or fast. For many people, brushing for two full minutes may not happen. To help with this, use a timer, play your favorite song or choose a battery-powered toothbrush that stays on for two minutes straight before timing off to make sure you are brushing your teeth for two minutes.

3. Floss 

Interdental cleaning is the best way to clean down in between your teeth daily. These hard-to-reach places can quickly build up plaque and lead to cavities and gum disease. For most of us, flossing will be the go-to method for interdental cleaning. Other options include water flossers and special picks. Floss can be waxed or unwaxed and may contain flavoring. The ADA recommends flossing once per day.

4. Mouthwash

Mouthwash is another excellent way to help get the areas of your mouth that your toothbrush cannot reach. Benefits of using mouthwash daily include preventing tooth decay and gingivitis, decreasing plaque buildup and delaying tartar formation. Mouthwash also helps to eliminate bad breath. Look for a mouthwash with active ingredients to help kill the bacteria that causes all of those aforementioned dental problems. Fluoride-containing rinses will help prevent cavities, so it is a good additive to look for when choosing a mouthwash.

 5. Regular Hygiene Appointments

The best way to take care of your oral health is to schedule dental appointments every six months. These preventative cleanings are necessary for many reasons. The visit will contain two parts, a cleaning and oral exam. The exam will be completed to look for anything abnormal or help diagnose any problems you may have and any issues you may not know about but will want to keep an eye on. Wisdom teeth and impacted teeth are two examples of problems that can be detected early through X-rays. During the cleaning, the dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, polish your teeth to remove any surface stains, floss for you and check your gum health, among other tasks.

There are so many ways we can work to take better care of our oral health daily. Form good daily habits to help get into the routine of caring for your mouth correctly. Limit sugary drinks and foods, and be sure to brush right after if you do indulge. If you have questions, reach out to your dentist.

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