How Can You Maintain Good Oral Hygiene At Home?

Good oral health is closely linked to your overall health. When your mouth is healthy, it’s easier for your body to fight off infections and disease. You can avoid many health problems by keeping your mouth healthy.

Your mouth is the gateway to the rest of your body. Many people don’t realize the importance of oral health. Here are some simple ways to maintain good oral hygiene at home:

Brushing and Flossing

You should brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day. When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste, and brush for at least two minutes. Remember to brush every tooth surface, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces.

When it comes to flossing, you should floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing will help remove plaque buildup.

Rinsing With a Fluoride Mouthwash

Even though brushing and flossing help your teeth and gums, it still may not be enough to maintain good oral hygiene. For the mouth to be healthy, the bacteria and plaque need to be removed and prevented from causing damage, and mouthwash can be a part of this.

Avoiding Tobacco Products

Tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco, have a number of negative health consequences. Not only can they cause gum disease, but they can also lead to cancer, heart disease, and lung disease.

If you smoke or use tobacco products, it’s important to stop now. The sooner that you can stop, the better it will be for your overall health.

Regular Dental Checkups

You should visit your dentist at least twice a year for an oral health exam and professional cleaning. While brushing and flossing at home can help you maintain your oral health, only your dentist can professionally clean your teeth. Plaque and tartar buildup can harden into calculus over time and can only be removed by a professional.

Your dentist will also check for any signs of dental problems during your appointment. For example, many people aren’t aware they have gum disease until the disease has advanced.

Use ADA Approved Toothpaste

You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session using a soft-bristled toothbrush with ADA-approved toothpaste. 

To learn more, please schedule an appointment online or call All Smiles Family Dentistry at (319) 553-3085 to have a consultation with Dr. Jennifer A. Stevenson or Dr. Sarah Cyr, and we will be happy to help.