Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for your overall cleanliness and general wellbeing, and yet so many of us are all too happy to put it on the back burner. Brushing twice a day is definitely a great way to start your cleaning routine, however, by no means should the process be left there. Here are a few professionally recommended tips and tricks to ensure that your smile is always at its healthiest, and brightest.
Check your Technique
No matter how great you think your brushing technique is, chances are, it’s a little too vigorous or not varied enough. Check your technique and refresh your toothbrush to improve your hygiene. Move a soft bristle brush in small and large circles to buff away plaque build up or food debris.
Keep it Regular
A brushing routine has to be regular in order to be effective. Twice a day is the followed standard, but if you want to get serious about improving your dental hygiene you should absolutely brush after every major meal of the day.
Use a Fluoride Toothpaste
Fluoride toothpaste helps to protect your teeth by reinforcing the enamel and preventing the seeping of acid from plaque build up penetrating your tooth. This is such an easy adjustment to make and it can have a really positive impact long term, so no excuses here!
Floss Once a Day
Brushing, even when done perfectly and regularly, just isn’t enough if you want to care for your teeth and gums diligently. Flossing at least once a day will work to curb the onset of gingivitis, cavities and poor breath – plus, it’s cheap, only takes a minute or two and you can slot it into your routine right after brushing.
Switch Up your Lifestyle
Lifestyle factors can negatively contribute to the overall condition of your mouth, not to mention your health. Some habits to reconsider include consuming copious amounts of caffeine, alcohol and smoking will all hurt your smile and your wellbeing long term. By eliminating these nasty habits, or at the very least minimising them, you’re going to really see a positive difference.
Stay Hydrated
Water keeps us clean, regular, fresh and healthy – and if it’s not already part of your usual routine, then it’s high time you changed that. Dehydration shuts all of our normal functions down, including the disruption of your oral balance and breath quality. Three litres of water a day is recommended, so grab yourself a portable metal water bottle and start taking your health seriously – your breath, energy levels and basic functions are going to thank you big time.
Tweak your Diet
Diet plays a huge role in wellbeing both general and dental, and if you’re running into constant issues or concerns, it’s time to take a look at what you’re putting in your body. Eating too much sugar or fruit can result in tooth decay and the development of cavities.
Visit a Dentist
Lastly, your dental hygiene isn’t going anywhere without regular trips to your dental professional. Your dentist can help with teeth whitening, cavities, check-ups and cleans and tooth extraction – just to name a few services! Visiting a professional every three to six months will absolutely ensure that your smile is always in the very best condition that it can be. Any issues or symptoms will be dealt with as and when they crop up, curbing the potential of any worse diseases or problems down the line.