4 Oral Hygiene Practices You Should Never Skip

You know you’re supposed to brush and floss your teeth daily to maintain a healthy smile, but they aren’t the only oral hygiene methods you should be using. Although you may not even be aware of them, they are crucial to preventing many common dental issues, like bad breath and tooth decay. Don’t put your smile at risk. Here are 4 additional oral hygiene best practices to commit to every day.

1. Brush Your Tongue

Although your tongue isn’t susceptible to tooth decay, oral bacteria can thrive on it and accumulate quickly. If the buildup isn’t removed, it can lead to several complications, like bad breath, diminished taste, black hair tongue, thrush, and periodontal disease.

Besides brushing your teeth, give your tongue a good scrubbing, too. Gently move your toothbrush back and forth and side to side before rinsing your mouth with water. You can also use a tongue scraper, which is placed on the back of the tongue and gently slid forward. The process may need to be repeated several times.

2. Change Your Toothbrush Often

Your toothbrush is your first line of defense against cavities and gum disease, but it won’t last forever. The bristles will become worn from daily wear and tear, making them less effective. It’s best to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or when the bristles are frayed, whichever comes first. You should also change it after you’ve been ill.

When choosing a new toothbrush, decide between a manual or an electric one. No matter your choice, look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. It’s recommended you use soft bristles to avoid causing damage to your enamel and gums.

3. Brush for 2 Minutes

The American Dental Association suggests brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes in the morning and at night. Unfortunately, most people only brush for about 45 seconds, leaving harmful plaque and bacteria in their mouths. Research shows brushing for the full 2 minutes will remove as much as 26% more plaque than doing it for less than 1 minute. Setting a timer on your cellphone is a great way to keep track of how long you’ve been brushing.

4. Visit Your Dentist

Your at-home dental care routine is vital for a healthy smile, but it’s only half the attention your mouth needs. The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Your dental hygienist will remove anything left behind by your toothbrush and floss. Your dentist will also make suggestions to improve your oral hygiene habits at home while also performing a comprehensive checkup.

Don’t let simple mistakes compromise your smile. Commit to an effective oral hygiene routine today!

About Dr. James M. Peery III

Dr. Peery earned his dental degree at the MCV School of Dentistry. As the former President of the Lynchburg Dental Society, he is a qualified and trusted dentist for exceptional services. If it’s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office to schedule an appointment.