Adopt These Dental Hygiene Habits

We all know that beautiful smiles are made from strong dental hygiene habits. If you want a smile you can be happy to show off, here are five dental hygiene habits you need to adopt.

1. Regular Use of Brushing, Flossing, and Mouthwash

A proper routine of brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash will keep your teeth clean and prevent stains from setting in. When brushing, you will want to ensure that your tooth brush is tilted at a 45-degree angle and that you are covering the entire surface of the tooth while also reaching the gums.

Brushing should be done twice a day while flossing and using mouthwash should be used at least once a day.

2. Reduce Sugary Drinks

Sugary drinks like sodas and juices can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Because these kinds of drinks contain chemicals and materials that can weaken enamel, encourage the production of bad bacteria, and even make your teeth appear dull or discolored, they are best to be avoided.

Instead, reach for drinks like water and milk.

3. Make Frequent Dentist Visits

To ensure you’re on the right track for maintaining a healthy smile, you will want to frequently visit your dentist. Having x-rays and teeth cleanings done can help detect issues before they become to serious, increasing your chance of fixing them before they result in serious side effects.

You should be visiting your dentist at least twice a year.

4. Don’t Forget Your Tongue

When we talk about oral hygiene, we usually only talk about the teeth and the gums. But the tongue is just as important for maintaining your health. Not only can not brushing your tongue increase your chance of having bad breath, but it can also allow bad bacteria to grow.

Use a tongue cleaner or a special toothbrush to brush your tongue.

5. Remember How Oral Health Connects to Overall Health

When you skip a dentist appointment or go a few days without flossing, you’re not just putting your oral health at risk – you’re also increasing your risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, or other potentially life threatening diseases. Remember that oral health contributes to your overall health.

When you keep your mouth healthy, you can keep the rest of your body healthy as well.

To help maintain your oral health, schedule an appointment with Dr. Anderson at his Kansas City, MO office.