DENTAL HYGIENE 101

So, let’s be honest: When was your last visit to the dentist? If it’s been over six months, it’s definitely been too long. One of my dentist’s favorite lines is, “You only have to take care of the teeth you want to keep!” This post will not only remind you to schedule your next dentist appointment, but it’ll also give you a few tips on how to keep that smile fresh and clean.

Brush Your Teeth

I don’t know who else needs to hear this, but mouthwash alone is not comparable to an old-fashioned toothbrush (patient experience 😶). Simply using a toothbrush and toothpaste daily can make a major difference in your dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth is one of the very first steps in taking care of your teeth, gums, and breath.

Here are a few tips that you may or may not know about brushing your teeth:

• Brush your teeth every day and every night. Especially in the morning, and it doesn’t hurt to do it after meals.

• Never forget to brush your tongue. This is one of the main causes of bad breath.

• Replace your toothbrush either every 3 months or when your bristles look busted, whichever comes first.

• As long as your toothpaste can fight plaque and cavities, you should be good to go. Choose a toothpaste that fits your preferences (examples are whitening and sensitivity) and has a good taste. (Personally I use a natural whitening toothpaste I found at Walmart and it works great!)

• When choosing toothbrush softness (soft vs hard), dentists recommend soft bristles. Although hard bristles are great at removing plaque from your teeth, they are often too abrasive on your gums, leading to recession and other issues.

Flossing

Throughout the day, plaque and food get stuck behind and between your teeth. Flossing at least once a day can prevent gum disease while promoting fresh breath and good oral hygiene. It doesn’t matter what time of day you decide to floss, just get it done! Use any type of floss that works for you, whether it’s traditional string floss, a floss pick, or a fancy water flosser.

Routine Dental Appointments

Dental exams help diagnose and treat any possible conditions with your teeth and gums. Dentists recommend visits every six months (instead of the usual yearly check-up for medical visits), since untreated dental conditions can progress quickly. At these routine exams, your dentist (with the help of an assistant) will take x-rays, make note of any present conditions, and track any possible changes since your last visit (well, if you’ve had one). It’s always great to have a dental exam since the dentist can tell you the spots, if any, you need to focus on when brushing and flossing. And if your teeth and gums are all healthy, an experienced dentist can tell you your best options for cosmetic services such as whitening, veneers and gold crowns if you’re into that.

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Seriously, here’s a friendly reminder to SCHEDULE A DENTAL APPOINTMENT soon if you haven’t been in a while (by a while, I mean like six months). Dental work only gets more expensive the more you put it off. For instance, cavities do not disappear, they only get bigger. An untreated cavity can lead to a root canal in no time at all. Don’t wait for a toothache to schedule an appointment, stay on top of your dental care!