The Importance Of Oral Hygiene

No matter how old you are, or what level of dental health you currently have, oral hygiene is critically important. Not only can poor oral care lead to bad breath and other unsightly issues, but it can also increase your risk of chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. That’s why it’s so important to properly care for your teeth and gums every day. Here’s a look at some basic oral hygiene tips that everyone should follow.

Brush Your Teeth Twice Per Day

Brushing your teeth twice per day is the best way to keep your mouth clean and healthy. When brushing, make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your mouth and reaches all areas of your teeth without difficulty. Use fluoride toothpaste—which helps prevent tooth decay—and brush in a circular motion for two minutes each session. Don’t forget about the back molars too; many people forget these often-forgotten areas when brushing.

Floss Your Teeth Daily

Flossing is a critical component of maintaining good dental hygiene. Flossing once per day removes plaque from between the teeth that aren’t removed by brushing alone. Flossing helps reduce this plaque buildup that leads to cavities and gum disease. Use roughly 18 inches of floss each time you floss to ensure thorough cleaning between each tooth. Make sure to be gentle with the floss—if done too aggressively, the floss could cut the gums.

Mouthwash Is Also Important

Mouthwash or rinses are mostly used as an extra layer of protection against bacteria in the mouth after brushing or flossing has occurred. They help kill any remaining bacteria that may remain on the teeth or gums after cleaning has taken place. There are different types of mouthwashes available, from those designed for children up to those specifically made for addressing serious gum problems like periodontitis; ask your dentist which kind is most suitable for you before using a rinse regularly.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

The importance of visiting your dentist regularly cannot be understated when it comes to keeping good oral hygiene habits. Even if you have perfect oral health right now it’s still important to visit them once or twice per year (or more often if recommended by dentists) for checkups and professional cleanings. To make sure no cavities or gum diseases are developing without detection. During visits, you can also ask questions about proper home care techniques for optimal dental health maintenance.

The Bottom Line

By following these simple guidelines, you can maintain good dental health as well as decrease your chances of experiencing negative effects from improper oral hygiene practices down the road.

For example, periodontitis and other life-threatening illnesses linked to adverse dental conditions like gum disease caused by inadequate care and maintenance habits over time. Taking preventive steps today will save you from seeking expensive treatments down the road.