Having clean teeth is important not only for aesthetics but also for overall health. It is essential to note that the condition of your mouth goes beyond your teeth and gums. Neglecting your oral health can lead to serious heart problems such as cardiovascular disease if bacteria or inflammation is not addressed.
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5 Oral Hygiene Habits to Swear By
Ensure your teeth stay healthy and in good condition by adopting oral hygiene practices daily. While your dentist can assist in cleaning your teeth during your appointments, it is up to you to take care of your teeth at home. It may even be beneficial to take a moment to reassess your current routine.
In this blog post, we will cover five oral hygiene habits that will enhance the health of your teeth and gums and improve your overall well-being.
1. Regular Brushing & Flossing
You may have heard this advice your entire life: brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. It may seem like dental professionals are repeating the same thing repeatedly, but there is a valid reason for it. Neglecting your oral hygiene can result in severe consequences, such as gum disease or tooth extraction.
To achieve the best results, our dentists advise brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once. However, it’s essential to note that simply brushing or flossing does not suffice. Practicing the proper technique to achieve the best possible cleaning is crucial.
To begin, hold the toothbrush gently in your hand. Tilt the brush slightly and point the soft bristles toward where your tooth meets your gum. Use circular, back-and-forth motions that are short and gentle, avoiding excessive pressure. Repeat this process for all tooth surfaces, and continue for a duration of two minutes.
When it comes to flossing, adopt a similar approach. Move gently between each tooth, focusing on flossing one tooth at a time. Avoid snapping the floss against your gums; instead, use a rubbing motion to guide the floss.
2. Embrace Fluoride
A critical error individuals commit regarding their oral hygiene is neglecting the use of Fluoride. Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, aids in cavity prevention and is often present in various toothpaste and mouthwash brands.
Using products that contain Fluoride is a safe and effective way to prevent tooth decay, even with regular oral care. Consider it a beneficial addition to your daily dental hygiene routine. When combined with brushing and flossing, the likelihood of avoiding dental issues increases significantly.
3. Avoid Smoking
Smoking is undoubtedly an unhealthy habit to engage in. In addition to harming the lungs and respiratory system, it can adversely affect oral health. Tooth discoloration, inflammation, and a heightened likelihood of developing oral cancer are all potential consequences.
We acknowledge that giving up smoking is a significant challenge. However, the benefits of quitting extend to reducing the damage caused to your mouth, regardless of the duration of tobacco use. Opt for a healthier lifestyle today by quitting smoking – your teeth and gums will appreciate it!
4. Limit Sugary Drinks
Indulging in sugary beverages can be a pleasant experience, but having them daily is not advisable. Drinking sweetened beverages such as soda or juice may increase your chances of developing detrimental cavities.
The optimal approach is to consume water consistently throughout the day. If desired, limit the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages to mealtimes and in moderation. However, if choosing to indulge in sugary drinks, it is important to prioritize oral hygiene by brushing your teeth before bedtime.
5. See Our Dentists Every 6 Months
The main emphasis of the dentists at J Street Dental Group in Sacramento, CA, is on preventive care. Therefore, we recommend you visit our office every six months to receive thorough teeth cleaning.
Indeed, a dental cleaning enables a thorough polishing of your teeth while giving our dentists a chance to perform a checkup. During this time, we will inquire about your well-being and any worries you may have and make a record of any emerging dental problems. Such appointments are typically brief but hold significant importance for the health of your mouth!
Give Yourself the Gift of a Sparkling Smile
Ensuring that you brush and floss regularly and reduce your sugar consumption is crucial for maintaining good oral health. Though it may take some time to break old habits and establish a new routine, our preventive dentists in Sacramento, CA, are confident that you will notice positive results once you do. To schedule your next appointment, you can easily book online or call J Street Dental Group at (916) 443 5677 today.