The Essentials of Every Oral Hygiene Routine

Last updated 10 months ago

Maintaining your oral health (Links to Sleep Apnea page on RSD Website?) has a direct effect on your overall health and wellness. In fact, studies show that proper oral hygiene can improve your whole-body health and reduce the risk of disease. Protect the health of your teeth and gums with these tips:

Brush at Least Twice a Day
It is crucial to brush your teeth at least twice daily—preferably after meals—to remove food particles and reduce the degree of plaque buildup. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association recommends using a soft-bristled toothbrush and placing the bristles at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. Maintain this angle while gently brushing all surfaces of your teeth with circular, back-and-forth motions. You will also want to tilt the brush vertically to brush behind your front teeth with up and down strokes.

Floss Daily
Flossing every day helps to remove food and plaque that is left behind after brushing. Take 18 inches of floss and wrap it around the middle fingers of each hand, pinching it between your thumbs and index fingers. Keep one to two inches of floss tight between your fingers and gently guide the floss between your teeth with a zigzag motion. Curve the floss around the sides of each tooth and dip slightly below the gum line.

Rinse with Mouthwash
Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash is a great way to promote good oral health and eliminate odor-causing bacteria. You may consider using a mouthwash that is not alcohol based, as this may increase your risk of dry mouth.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly
One of the best ways to maintain your oral hygiene is to visit your dentist every six months for an exam and professional cleaning. Individuals with a history of cavities or preexisting gum disease may require more frequent visits.

Whether you’re interested in a checkup, dental implants, laser tooth whitening, or another cosmetic dentistry treatment, Really Smile is here to help. Give our Indianapolis area office a call at (877) 619-4857 to set up a consultation.