
Home care of your teeth is one of the most important things that you should do for your oral health. A healthy smile not only makes you feel good but also keeps your mouth clean and strong. In this article, we will explore the essentials of dental home care so you can take care of your teeth and gums like a pro!
1. Brushing Your Teeth Properly
Brushing your teeth is the first step to a healthy smile, but you may not know the proper way to do it. According to dentists, it is recommended that one should brush their teeth at least two times a day, once in the morning and again before going to bed.
Use a soft bristle toothbrush and a toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride is effective at preventing cavities and maintaining the strength of your teeth. You should place the toothbrush at an acute angle and move it back and forth in a circular motion on the teeth. Also, do not forget to clean the outer, inner, and chewing parts of the teeth!
It is also crucial to clean the tongue. Food particles and bacteria tend to accumulate on the tongue, resulting in bad breath and other oral problems.
Pro Tip: It is important not to brush your teeth for more than two minutes! In case you don’t have a timer, you can use other devices that can help you to keep track of time when you are brushing.
2. Flossing
Brushing your teeth is great, but it only cleans the surfaces of your teeth. Flossing is just as important because it cleans between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach.
Floss at least once a day, preferably before bed. To floss, gently slide the floss between your teeth and move it up and down. Be careful not to snap the floss, as this could hurt your gums.
Flossing helps remove plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease if not removed.
Pro Tip: Use about 18 inches of floss and wrap the ends around your fingers for better control.
3. Utilize Mouthwash
Mouthwash is a great addition to your dental care routine. It helps wash away bacteria that cause bad breath and can reach areas of your mouth that brushing and flossing might miss. Some mouthwashes also help reduce plaque buildup and fight gum disease.
When choosing a mouthwash, look for one that contains fluoride and is alcohol-free, as alcohol can dry out your mouth.
Pro Tip: Swish the mouthwash around for about 30 seconds, ensuring to covers all areas of your mouth.
4. Eating a Balanced Diet for Strong Teeth
What you eat also affects your dental health. Eating a variety of healthy foods, like fruits, vegetables, dairy products and more can help keep your teeth strong. Foods rich in calcium, such as milk and cheese, are great for your teeth and bones.
On the other hand, sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities. When bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, they produce acid that can damage your tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay.
Pro Tip: Try to limit your intake of sugary snacks and drinks, and rinse your mouth with water after eating them.
5. Regular Dental Checkups
While taking care of your teeth at home is important, visiting the dentist regularly is just as crucial. Dentists can check for any signs of problems, like cavities, gum disease and more before they become serious. They can also clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can at home.
A dentist will recommend how often you should visit them based on your personal oral health. Most people should visit the dentist at least once every six months.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip your dentist appointments! Regular checkups keep your teeth in good shape.
6. The Importance of Hydration
Drinking enough water is not only good for your overall health, but it’s also great for your teeth. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria that can cause cavities. Plus, it keeps your mouth hydrated, which is important for your oral health.
Pro Tip: Drink water throughout the day, especially after meals, to help keep your mouth clean.
Key Takeaway
Taking care of your teeth at home is a key part of maintaining a healthy smile. By brushing, flossing, using mouthwash, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and visiting the dentist regularly, you can keep your teeth strong and your smile shining bright.
Contact Uplands Dental Clinic to Protect Your Teeth!
At Uplands Dental Clinic, we’re committed to providing the optimal care for your teeth. Our friendly team of dentist in Nanaimo is here to help you maintain a healthy, bright smile. Whether you need a routine checkup or treatment, we ensure that your visit is comfortable and stress-free. We use the latest technology to offer high-quality dental services for all ages. Book your dental appointment today at Uplands Dental Clinic!