Routine oral hygiene should include flossing and brushing, but what else can you do for a dazzling, healthy smile? If you’re looking to step up your oral hygiene game, stick around. Our dentists in Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour, NSW, are here to give you six simple yet effective ways to improve your oral hygiene routine.
One of the best ways to upgrade your routine oral hygiene practices is to visit the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre. Schedule an exam and cleaning at our Woolgoolga, NSW, office at (02) 6654-0650 or at our Coffs Harbour, NSW, office at (02) 6652-3242.
Now, let’s explore six ways you can improve your routine oral hygiene practices for a healthier, stronger, more radiant smile!
1. Brushing Technique Matters
Are you brushing your teeth correctly? Many people rush through their brushing routine, missing key areas and leaving behind plaque and bacteria.
Brush in gentle, elliptical motions for at least 120 seconds (that’s two minutes) for optimal results. Be sure to lightly scrub all surfaces of your teeth, including the chewing surfaces, fronts, and backs.
And don’t forget to show your tongue some love! Brushing your tongue boosts your routine oral hygiene practices by removing bacteria and freshening your breath.
2. Floss Daily
Flossing is the unsung hero of routine oral hygiene practices. This is because brushing alone can’t remove plaque and food particles wedged along the gumline and stuck between teeth.
So, make it a habit to floss once a day, preferably before bedtime or once you are done eating for the day.
Use a gentle sawing motion to slide the floss between your teeth, curving it around each tooth in a C-like shape to clean beneath the gumline.
3. Choose the Right Mouthwash
Mouthwash can be a valuable addition to your routine oral hygiene practices, but not all mouthwashes are created equally.
Look for a fluoride mouthwash that helps rebuild weak enamel and prevent tooth decay.
If you’re prone to gum inflammation or have bad breath, consider an antibacterial mouthwash to kill harmful bacteria and freshen your breath.
Just remember: Mouthwash should complement – not replace – brushing and flossing.
4. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Yummy treats like candies, sodas, and fruit juices can wreak havoc on your teeth, leading to decay and erosion. So, it is best to limit your intake of these goodies.
When you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help neutralize acids and reduce the risk of damage to your enamel.
Here’s a tip: Opt for tooth-friendly snacks like crunchy fruits and vegetables, cheese, and nuts to promote saliva production and protect your teeth.
5. Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Even if you maintain a diligent oral hygiene routine at home, regular dental checkups are necessary for detecting and preventing oral health issues.
Aim to visit your dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and examination.
6. Stay Hydrated
Fresh, uncarbonated, and unflavored water is not only vital for your overall health but also for your oral health. Good ol’ H₂O helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Additionally, staying hydrated promotes saliva production, which is essential for acid reduction and enamel remineralization.
Visit Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre Today
Improving your routine oral hygiene practices doesn’t have to be complicated. Remember: Consistency is key, so make these habits a regular part of your daily routine for optimal oral health.
Kick off your journey toward a healthier smile with the team at Magic Smiles Dental and Implant Centre today! You can contact our Woolgoolga, NSW, team at (02) 6654-0650 or our Coffs Harbour, NSW, team at (02) 6652-3242. You can also request appointments on our website!
