A great oral care routine is something that you should be able to do regardless of whether you are at home or not. Why? Because your oral care routine will dictate whether you can keep your teeth and gums, and consequently, your overall health in top shape.
Aside from routine oral exams and professional cleanings with your dentist, Dr. Stephanie Herbst of Enid Dental Care here in Enid, OK, here’s how you can start developing and following a good oral care routine.
Know Your Enemy
In terms of oral health, plaque, which is a sticky bacteria film regularly forming on your teeth is your top enemy. It initiates tooth decay from the sugar and starch contents of the food you eat. Likewise, the acid formed by the plaque attacks and weakens the tooth enamel to the point where cavities and tooth decay appear.
Plaque does not stop there. If it is not removed, it can harden into calculus or tartar usually found near your gum line. Take note that only a professional cleaning from your dentist in Enid, OK, can get rid of calculus effectively.
The gums become irritated and inflamed because of the poisons released by the plaque. This is when you will notice that your gums are pulling away from your teeth, leaving gaps that become further infected. Untreated gum disease likewise leads to bone decay, causing even healthy teeth to loosen and fall out.
Your Oral Care Routine
Fighting gum disease-causing plaque can be done by removing any bits and pieces of food that may be stuck in your teeth. Doing this regularly also prevents the formation of tartar. Here is where a great oral care routine comes into play. Here are habits that form the essential foundation for any great oral care routine:
Everything Starts with Brushing Properly
Brush every surface of your teeth at least twice daily, making sure that one of those instances is before you go to bed at night. Aside from using a soft-bristled toothbrush fluoride toothpaste, proper technique is vital. Keep the bristled tilted at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use gentle movements to prevent gum damage. Likewise, end by brushing your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
Follow Up with Flossing
Often neglected because of the extra effort, flossing is one way to prevent tartar buildup. Start by taking about an 18-inch long floss and wrap the ends to your fingers. Leave about two inches of floss to clean teeth and then gently slide the floss between the teeth by following its curve. Repeat this action for all your teeth especially for teeth at the back of the mouth.
Rinsing with Mouthwash
After each brushing and after every flossing, you must rinse your mouth. Make sure you use a fluoride mouthwash to kill lingering bacteria. Take a sip of the mouthwash and swish it around your mouth for 30 to 40 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat if necessary.
If You Need Help Developing an Effective Oral Hygiene Routine, Call Us
Call (580) 237-2213 to set up an evaluation with your dentist, Dr. Stephanie Herbst of Enid Dental Care in Enid, OK.