It’s no secret that pursuing good oral hygiene is the key to maintaining good oral health. But what are those elements of a solid oral hygiene daily regimen? GA Dentist, Gentry Dentistry of Suwanee, breaks it down into five easy-to-follow tips…
Invest in a Good Toothbrush and Fluoride Toothpaste
Like any successful undertaking, you have to start with the right tools. Research and invest in an effective toothbrush and toothpaste to pursue good oral care. When shopping, keep an eye out for products that feature the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal, and make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that prevents tooth decay by strengthening tooth enamel, lowers the pH level in the mouth to inhibit bacteria growth, protects the teeth from plaque growth, and reverses the early signs of tooth decay. For some great advice on choosing the right toothbrush that will work for you, read our blog, How Your Toothbrush Protects You Between Dental Visits.
Brush at Least Two Times a Day
It’s not enough to have the right tools if you’re not using them properly… or frequently enough. According to Drs Harry Gentry and Darby Gentry Tomkins, a good rule of thumb is to brush at LEAST two times a day – in the morning when you wake up and in the evening when you go to bed. For an added layer of protection, you can ramp that number up to three times a day – after each meal: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Don’t Forget to Brush Your Tongue
In addition to ensuring you’re hitting every one of those 28 to 32 pearly whites when you brush, you’ll also want to add the top of your tongue to your mouth care regimen. The tongue can be a hotbed for bacteria, so between the friction that disrupts that environment and the fluoride that helps balance pH levels, brushing your tongue can help diminish bacterial growth and freshen your breath.
Floss at Least One Time a Day
You can have the healthiest, prettiest teeth in the world, but if your gums are in poor health, you may risk losing them. Flossing between teeth dislodges food, removes plaque, and prevents tartar buildup. If food, plaque, and tartar are left unchecked, you may be headed for gum disease and other related health issues. Plaque is a bacteria-filled film on your teeth that can cause cavities and periodontal pathology – which could, in turn, lead to inflammation of the arteries and heart disease.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
The most important tip for pursuing good oral hygiene and mouth care is to visit your dentist every six months. Those bi-annual checkups are ideal for identifying potential issues and following a treatment plan to correct them. If you’re searching for a highly reputable dental practice in Suwanee, GA, Gentry Dentistry is currently accepting new patients. We are proud to serve everyone From Growing Grins to Senior Smiles! To set an appointment, book now through our online contact form, send us a note at office@gentrydentist.com, or call our patient service desk at 770-945-5850.
