Learn more about how to develop excellent oral hygiene habits that will optimize your level of wellness by reviewing the short outline found below:
What Is Oral Hygiene?
Although defined broadly, oral hygiene is basically the process of implementing dental strategies that keep your teeth healthy while ensuring that they are aesthetically appealing.
Oral Hygiene Strategies
There are several oral hygiene strategies you can implement to get your teeth in great condition. Some of them include:
Brushing Strategies
To optimize oral hygiene, make sure that you are brushing your teeth at least two times each day. Make sure that you do not brush your teeth too rapidly. Instead, take your time and do the job thoroughly. Also be sure to use the right equipment. This means that you should invest in a soft-bristled toothbrush that does not irritate your gums. Also be sure to utilize a high quality toothpaste.
When it’s time for you to buy a new toothbrush, consider selecting one that is battery-operated or electric. This can help reduce gum disease and plaque more than the traditional, manual brushing process that you would complete with a regular toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are also helpful for individuals who have arthritis or experience other challenges that make brushing difficult.
When you brush your teeth, make sure that you are using a good technique. This means that you should be holding the brush at a slight angle. You should also aim your bristles so that they are facing towards the region where the tooth meets the gum. Be sure that you are making back-and-forth motions. Brush the inside, outside and chewing surfaces of the teeth. Also brush your tongue.
Clean your brushing equipment regularly. Also be sure to rinse your utensils after you finish brushing. Your toothbrush should be stored in an upright position. Be sure that you give it time to air-dry before you brush your teeth again. Also be sure to keep the toothbrush away from other toothbrushes to decrease the likelihood of cross-contamination. Don’t store the toothbrush in a closed container because doing so can increase the likelihood of yeast, mold, and bacterial growth.
Buy a new toothbrush every three to four months. If the bristles become frayed or irregular before this time has elapsed, go ahead and purchase a new one.
Flossing Strategies
Because we cannot reach the spaces between our teeth with a toothbrush, flossing daily is immensely important. Here are some strategies that can help you optimize the flossing process:
Use roughly 18 inches (which is 46 centimeters) of your floss. Wind the majority of the floss around your middle finger. Leave the rest on the middle finger of your other hand. Make sure that you are gripping the floss tightly between the forefingers and thumbs. Use gentle motions to floss between the teeth with rubbing motions. Never snap floss into the gums.
If you find floss difficult to handle, use another device. Some of your options include:
- dental pick
- water flosser
- pre-threaded flosser
- wooden plaque remover
Visiting The Dentist in Boynton Beach
In addition to taking care of your teeth at home, be sure that you are visiting the dentist regularly. Doing so helps optimize oral hygiene by ensuring that you can attain an in-depth cleaning while having the dentist use sophisticated technology to detect any issues. In addition to having your teeth cleaned annually, be sure to visit the dentist if you experience any of the following challenges:
- Red gums
- Bleeding gums
- Changes in the way your dentures fit
- Loose teeth
- Gums that have begun to pull away from the teeth
- Changes in the alignment of the teeth
- Sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
- Habitual bad breath
- Sores that do not heal
- Difficulty swallowing
Don’t Delay: Start Optimizing Your Oral Hygiene Today!
If you’re serious about improving your oral hygiene and optimizing your health, now is the time to begin. You can use some or all of the strategies outlined above to put the process in motion immediately. If you are currently looking for a dentist, the friendly professionals of Boynton Laser Dental Center can assist you. Contact a customer service representative at (561) 737-6400 to schedule your consultation.