Daily oral care should be a priority for everyone. Developing good oral hygiene habits can be surprisingly simple, but sticking to them can be a real challenge. Here are some ways to keep your mouth clean:
Daily flossing and brushing are a must. You should floss at least once a day and brush at least twice each day. Brushing after meals is the most effective. Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush and brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Brush the front, back, and top of your teeth. Plaque tends to collect at the gum line, so make sure you focus there.
While brushing your teeth at home is important, your oral hygiene habits should also include regular visits to the dentist. During your visit, your doctor and their team will thoroughly clean your teeth by removing plaque and tartar buildup. This is important because this buildup can lead to gum disease.
While a toothbrush removes plaque, particles can still linger. Using mouthwash helps eliminate food particles and bacteria that brushing does not, especially after meals.
When enjoying a meal, it’s normal to want a beverage to wash it down. However, when you drink water immediately after eating, it washes away the beneficial minerals from your teeth and gums. When you drink water after a meal, choose a beverage that doesn’t contain a lot of sugar. Good options include water, milk, and unsweetened tea.
Smoking is one of the worst habits for your oral health, and tobacco use can lead to periodontal disease and oral cancer. Try to stop smoking or at least cutback. Our dentist can provide you with additional advice on how to quit.
In addition to using tobacco products, it’s important to avoid chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, and other things that can crack or wear down your teeth.
Opening packages or bottles with your teeth often have a negative impact on oral health. The teeth are not meant to be used as tools, and using them as such can lead to breakage or chipping and loosening of the teeth.
To learn more about our dental procedures, call Cheyenne Mountain Dental at (719) 576-3276 to schedule your appointment or visit us at 3605 Star Ranch Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80906. For more information, please contact info@cheyennemountaindental.com.
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