Improving and maintaining oral health is more than just your regularly scheduled dental visits. Visits are crucial, but your oral health is in your hands and is a result of your daily routine. To help you avoid cavities or other oral health issues, here is a list to get you started on the path to improving your oral health.
Brushing and Flossing
There is a better way to brush and floss. When you brush, use a pea-sized dollop on your toothbrush and a soft-bristled brush. Medium or hard bristles can hurt tooth enamel, so avoid using those.
Brush in a circular motion with some pressure to remove plaque and other trapped food. If you push too hard, you are looking at damaging your gums or teeth, but if you do not push hard enough, you will not get everything. Ideally, you want to brush for at least two minutes twice a day.
When it comes to flossing, it needs to be a daily habit. It would be best to remember to floss between every tooth and get both sides of each tooth. Using a mouthwash after flossing is a great way to get to the small areas where you may not have been able to reach with floss or your brush.
Always Use the Correct Tools
Different situations call for various tools. While a typical brush and floss may work for many, if you have braces or dentures, you will need to have the right tools for the job.
Denture wearers need a gentle brush in addition to following the instructions that your dentist gave. If your dentures ever feel uncomfortable or painful, you need to visit your dentist because they are not supposed to feel that way.
People that wear braces must remember the space in between the brackets and wires. If you have braces, you need to brush the wires and pins gently. You may have to do it more than once to make sure you get all the food particles. Waxed floss is also better for braces.
Make Positive Choices
Sugar is not a friend to your teeth, so making it a conscious choice to eat a healthy diet can go a long way. That is not to say you cannot enjoy the occasional treat, but proteins, fruits, and vegetables are better for your oral health.
Drinking more water also encourages good oral health. Not only does water flush food particles from your mouth and your teeth, and it also does not hurt your mouth. Sugary and acidic drinks, like sodas, teas, or coffee, can soften tooth enamel. That does not mean you cannot enjoy a cocktail or cup of coffee from time to time but follow up with water to rinse your mouth.
Using these tips will improve your oral health, but you also do not want to skip out on seeing a dentist regularly. Contact Boss Dental Care’s office in Corpus Christi, Texas at (361) 245-5400 and we will be happy to get you scheduled.
