In this new wave of health and wellness has come a desire to do things the right way for our bodies. Be that prioritizing our diet, exercise regimen, or even our oral routine. While some people may be brushing the recommended two times per day, as many as 23% of American adults brush only every other day. It is important to remember that our mouth is the gateway to the rest of our body, and overall wellness begins with our dental routine. Keep reading for some of the best tips from a dental hygienist.
In the Bathroom
Yes, brushing is essential. Brushing for two minutes two times per day is the American Dental Association’s recommendation to keep a healthy mouth. Unfortunately, it is not enough. To ensure you are doing your best during your dental routine, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush. Medium-Hard bristled brushes damage the enamel and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Store your toothbrush upright in an open container. Wet toothbrushes can become a breeding ground for bacteria, so make sure to keep them dry!
- Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months. By this time, your toothbrush’s bristles have become jagged and may now start to scrape the surface of your teeth. Toothbrushes are cheap; get a new one!
- Floss. While you don’t need to do this every time you brush, flossing at least once each day helps get the “sugar bugs” out from between your teeth.
In the Kitchen
So much of our dental health starts in the kitchen. Our diet and what we consume lingers in our mouth and on our teeth, which then can translate into cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, infections, and much more. So remember:
- Decrease sugar consumption. No, you don’t have to eliminate it. If you have a sweet tooth, try to stick with chocolates instead of hard candies or sticky things that can get stuck on the surface of or between your teeth. Brush after a sugary treat!
- Don’t snack throughout the day. Pick a time, maybe after dinner, that works best to have a treat. Instead of snacking throughout the day, which gives bacteria more opportunities to develop cavities, treat yourself once and brush after. The additional saliva in your mouth after a meal helps wash down any sugar bugs that may be hanging around.
- No sugary beverages. It’s okay to have a sugary treat but make sure it is not a beverage. Water should be what you consume during the day. It is much harder to clean your mouth after a sugary drink than after a glass of water.
In the Dentist Office
Make sure you stick with an excellent dental schedule. Dentists recommend routine cleaning, exams, and x-rays at least two times per year and more if needed. Only you and your dentist will know what is right for you, so schedule an appointment with us at Kip Dental and let us get you set on the right track for optimal oral health.
