Tips To Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral health means teeth are clean, gums are pink, and the breath smells fresh. Achieving good oral health starts with good oral hygiene. Good oral hygiene is important for everyone, no matter their age. This is because poor oral hygiene can lead to several oral health problems like tooth decay, cavities, bad breath, gum disease, infections, etc. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits can prevent oral problems, helping you avoid pain, a costly trip to the dentist, or other dental issues.

What does good oral hygiene mean?

Good oral hygiene means keeping one's teeth and mouth clean and disease-free by following certain oral care practices. They are considered the most important step to prevent the onset of any dental diseases. 

How can I maintain good oral hygiene?

• Stay hydrated

Your body needs water in order to work properly, including your mouth. When you become dehydrated, your mouth dries out, which can lead to bad breath. Aim for at least eight glasses of water per day. You should also avoid beverages that contain a lot of sugar, as this can contribute to tooth decay.

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day

When brushing, be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and each surface. Also, don't forget to brush your tongue.

Some patients use a toothbrush with a built-in tongue scraper. This can help to remove bacteria buildup on the tongue.

• Floss your teeth daily

Brushing your teeth removes plaque from the outer and inner surfaces of your teeth. Plaque is sticky and filled with bacteria. But, plaque still manages to penetrate the surface of your teeth in between brushings. This is why you should floss your teeth daily.

• Eat a healthy diet

Keeping up good oral hygiene means you have to avoid eating foods that can negatively affect your teeth. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, such as candy and soda. These foods increase the amount of plaque on your teeth, which eats away at the enamel.

• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for dental exams and teeth cleanings

Professional teeth cleanings are essential to keep a large number of dental problems at bay. 

During your routine dental appointment, your hygienist will thoroughly examine your mouth, including your gums, cheeks, teeth, tongue, and jaw. This way, your dentist can spot signs of oral cancer, diabetes, HIV, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and other health conditions.

The earlier your dentist can spot these signs, the sooner you can catch and treat the illness.

• Use mouthwash and fluoride

Mouthwash and fluoride are excellent ways to keep your mouth clean in between brushings. Fluoride helps to increase the strength of your enamel and prevent tooth decay. Fluoride helps to remineralize your teeth. It also helps to prevent sensitivity.

• Avoid smoking, chewing, or biting on hard things, or objects like pencils or pens

Smoking can stain your teeth and deter proper blood flow, which can delay healing. Using tobacco products can also put you at risk for oral cancer.

Chewing on hard things, such as pencils, pens, or ice, can damage your teeth. So, avoid them at any cost.

Louie Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing the best care for your health. To know more about good oral hygiene practices, come to our office at 41268 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94538. Please contact us at (510) 656-7778.