Oral Hygiene Tips from a General Dentist

After each routine visit to your general dentist, you may receive a few tips or recommendations from your dentist to continue to maintain or boost your oral health. Although these tips vary from patient to patient, there are a few tips that dentists share across the board.

Brush your teeth twice a day

Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice per day. Brushing works to remove any residual food particles that can be converted into acids from the mouth. The routine of brushing also helps remove bacteria and any acids in the mouth.

Enlisting the correct brushing techniques will remove any plaque that has built up throughout the day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and make sure you brush in circular motions on each tooth. Don’t forget the roof of your mouth and your tongue. The entire process should take around two minutes. 

Floss once a day

Flossing your teeth at least once per day, preferably in the evening, helps to get all of the gunk from between your teeth. Toothbrushes cannot always thoroughly get between the teeth, so flossing is imperative for both gum and tooth health. Flossing will remove food particles stuck between the teeth and prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar in those areas. 

Use a fluoride mouthwash

Many general dentists recommend rinsing with a fluoride mouthwash. This works to strengthen and clean your teeth, leaving you with fresh and clean smelling breath. Follow the instructions on the mouthwash. Most mouthwashes direct you to rinse once or twice daily. 

Ensure you pick a mouthwash that has fluoride for best results. Some mouthwash products have antibacterial properties that kill oral bacteria. This helps reduce the production of acids created in the mouth. 

Limit certain beverages and sugar intake

Coffee, tea, carbonated beverages, and tobacco can all have detrimental effects on your teeth. Coffee and tea can stain your teeth. Tobacco can also stain the teeth, as well as eat away at the teeth. Carbonated beverages can erode your teeth as the carbonation turns acidic inside your mouth. 

Sugar is bad for your teeth as it promotes tooth decay. Allowing the sugary coating to remain on your teeth can have a detrimental effect because sugar is acidic, and bacteria in your mouth will convert it to other acids. Limit your intake of sugary products, and when you do consume them, rinse your mouth with water to mitigate the effects. 

Visit your general dentist regularly

Ensure that you visit your dentist on a routine basis, which for most people ends up being every six months or so. At these appointments, your dentist will check your teeth, ensuring there are no signs of any potential problems that could affect your oral health. During the cleaning and examination, your teeth will be stripped of plaque and tartar, and your gums will be checked for signs of gum disease. 

If you experience any pain and sensitivity in your mouth, contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.