Brushing
Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of oral hygiene. Make it a habit to brush your teeth two or three times a day, dedicating two minutes each time.
For optimal results, divide your teeth into four quadrants (upper right, upper left, lower right, lower left) and spend 30 seconds on each. Carefully brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and biting surfaces.
Tip: Try an Electric Toothbrush
Consider using an electric toothbrush, as it can make brushing easier and more effective. Electric toothbrushes require less effort than manual brushes, as they perform the correct brushing movement for you.
Look for one with a round, rotating head, as this allows for ideal circular brushing motions.
Moreover, the small head of an electric toothbrush can reach difficult-to-clean areas, such as your back molars and the backs of your front teeth.
Flossing
Flossing is another essential step in maintaining oral hygiene. Aim to floss at least once a day, preferably before bedtime.
Flossing helps remove food debris and plaque buildup from the spaces between your teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. To floss effectively, insert the floss between two teeth and move it up and down the side of each tooth, forming a "c" shape. Take your time and ensure you floss between every pair of teeth.
Professional Dental Cleanings & Check-ups
Visiting the dentist every six months for a dental cleaning and check-up is essential to maintaining oral health.
Your dentist has the expertise and tools required to remove plaque and tartar build-up that you can't remove yourself with brushing and flossing.
Dentists possess the expertise and tools necessary to remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated through brushing and flossing alone. Additionally, regular dental visits allow early detection and treatment of dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and potential abnormalities like tumors or cysts. Some oral health issues may not be noticeable to the untrained eye, making dental evaluations essential.Diet
Eating a healthy diet that’s rich in calcium helps keep your teeth healthy from the inside out. Restrict consumption of sugars and starches, because oral bacteria thrive on these.
Hydration
Staying hydrated can help prevent cavities! Drinking plenty of water will help you maintain a sufficient saliva flow, and saliva washes away the food particles that collect on your teeth and allow bacteria to multiply.
Supplementary Hygiene Aids
Oral hygiene aids are additions to your brushing and flossing routine. Good examples of supplementary hygiene aids include tongue cleaners, mouthwash, interdental cleaners, and oral irrigators.
These aids can help you keep your breath fresh, and prevent plaque from building up between brushing and flossing sessions. While they are not sufficient replacements for a thorough brushing and flossing routine, they can definitely help improve it.