Best Practices To Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Dental hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean. People often think that brushing and flossing are enough to keep their teeth and gums healthy. However, professional cleanings and checkups are essential to maintaining optimal oral health.

Why Is It Important To Maintain Good Oral Hygiene?

The most important reason to maintain good oral health is to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. If left untreated, gum disease can pose a serious threat to your overall health.

Maintaining good dental hygiene habits at home is essential to keeping your mouth healthy.

Healthy Oral Hygiene Practices

• Brushing your teeth

The most important practice to be followed in maintaining good oral health is brushing. It is important to brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time using fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and ensure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months. 

• Flossing

Flossing is one of the most important practices for preventing decay. If you don’t floss, you are increasing your chances of getting tooth decay and cavities as well as gum disease. Flossing at least once a day will help remove food particles, plaque, and bacteria from the teeth.

• Tongue scraping

It’s recommended to brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day, but cleaning your tongue should be added to your oral hygiene routine at least once a day. Tongue scraping removes harmful bacteria and plaque from the surface of the tongue, and it can help improve your gum health.

• Mouthwash

Using a mouthwash after brushing is also essential to your oral health. Mouthwashes are not a substitute for flossing, but they can help to freshen your breath. Mouthwashes can also help to reduce or eliminate plaque and bacteria in your mouth.

• Avoiding Smoking

Dental hygiene and smoking don’t go well together. Smoking can have a negative impact on your teeth and oral tissues and cause tooth staining, gum disease, bad breath, and more. If you smoke, talk to your dentist or doctor about resources that can help you quit. In the meantime, be sure to practice excellent dental hygiene, including brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day.

• Regular dental visits

You should visit the dentist at least twice a year. Regular visits will help to prevent cavities and gum disease. The dentist can also provide you with tips to maintain good oral health in-between visits.

What dental checkups can screen for:

• Oral cancer
• Gum disease
• Cavities
• Plaque and tartar buildup
• Worn teeth
• Tooth sensitivity

If you are concerned about any of these dental issues, come in for an exam. We will check for any symptoms or signs of oral cancer, gum disease, cavities, plaque and tartar buildup, worn teeth, or tooth sensitivity. If we find anything, we will recommend the best treatment for you.

• Diet and oral hygiene

The best dental hygiene practices will have a positive effect on your overall health. The healthier your diet, the less risk you have for heart disease, cancer, and other chronic diseases.

Here are a few tips for keeping a healthy diet:

1. Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
2. Avoid Sugary Foods
3. Avoid Carbonated Drinks
4. Avoid Processed Foods

• Use mouth guards 

Teeth grinding (bruxism), also called “teeth clenching” or “ jaw clenching,” can cause dental problems if left untreated. This condition may be brought on by stress, anxiety, an abnormal bite, or crooked teeth. Remedies include using a night guard while you sleep.  

At 5th Ave Smile, our experienced team provides the best dental care for patients in Aurora, CO. To schedule an appointment, call (303) 360-7462, or visit our office at 2044 Clinton St. Suite B, Aurora, CO 80010.