How Can You Maintain Good Oral Health At Home?

How Can You Maintain Good Oral Health At Home?

Posted by Laura Snyder DDS on Sep 22 2022, 04:49 AM

Oral health can improve many aspects of your life. Your mouth is the first thing that others see when they look at you. If you have poor oral health, you may avoid smiling or laughing in public, which can affect your confidence.

Improving your oral hygiene will help your smile appear healthier. When your teeth are healthier, your confidence will soar, and you will likely smile more. Here are some simple ways to maintain your oral health:

Brush Your Teeth

Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time. You should use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Many patients find it hard to brush their teeth for the full two minutes. Try to set a timer or listen to a song while brushing.

Floss Daily

Floss your teeth once a day. Ideally, you should floss before you brush. You can use a floss threader if you need help.

Flossing removes plaque from between the teeth, along the gumline. If plaque isn’t removed, it can eventually harden into tartar. Plaque and tartar can both lead to gum disease, which can result in the loss of bone and tissue that hold teeth in place.

Rinse with Mouthwash

Rinse with mouthwash. Using a mouthwash after brushing helps to remove food particles and plaque buildup from places that your toothbrush may have missed. Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and freshen breath.

The ADA recommends rinsing with mouthwash for one minute twice a day.

Follow a Healthy Diet

If your dentist has told you that you are at risk for tooth decay, be sure to pay extra attention to your diet. A healthy diet will also promote good overall health. Limit your consumption of processed and sugary foods, as these can wreak havoc on your teeth.

In addition to watching what you eat, be sure to drink plenty of water every day. Water helps rinse away food debris and bacteria from your mouth, not to mention it increases saliva production, which fights acid and plaque buildup.

Quit Smoking

Smoking is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, gum disease, and oral cancer. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do to preserve your oral health. Smoking cigarettes and cigars can stain your teeth and change their appearance. It can also make it more difficult for your dentist to treat you.

Use Mouthguards When Playing Sports

Any sport or recreational activity that involves moving your mouth and face can lead to serious injuries. In fact, sports-related dental injuries are some of the most common injuries that athletes sustain. If you participate in sports, wearing a mouthguard can greatly reduce your risk for dental injuries.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride strengthens teeth and prevents tooth decay. You can find this ingredient in most toothpaste. We recommend using fluoride toothpaste twice a day for optimal effect.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

In order to keep your teeth and gums healthy, it is essential to visit your dentist regularly. Not only can they provide you with professional cleanings, but they can also perform a comprehensive exam to identify any dental problems early. Your dentist can then recommend treatment to correct oral health issues before they get worse.

To find out more about the dental services offered by our dentist in Albuquerque, NM, call (505)-293-7611 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 4830 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE, Ste. K, Albuquerque, NM, 87111.

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