Other than diet and exercise, there aren't a lot of ways that people can take charge of their health. However, when it comes to your teeth, at-home hygiene is vitally important. In this post, our staff of dentists have listed a few of the ways you can make sure you're properly caring for your teeth in between your checkups at Dental Pointe in Naperville, IL.
Brushing
Everyone knows the basics behind brushing your teeth, but fine-tuning your technique with tips from your Naperville, IL, dentist can make a huge difference in your overall dental health. For example, it's best to switch to a new toothbrush every three or four months, making sure that you choose one with soft bristles and a comfortable grip on the handle. Resist the temptation to push too hard when brushing to avoid damaging your enamel, and find a toothpaste that works best for your unique dental health needs. One of our dentists at Dental Pointe will be glad to make suggestions.
Flossing
This part of dental care can feel inconvenient and even pointless, especially if you're already following the brushing techniques outlined above. However, floss reaches areas between the teeth that are too small for toothbrushes, extracting food particles that can turn into undetected plaque and then tartar. If flossing hasn't been a habit you've been able to pick up, your Naperville dentist suggests switching from the spool of flossing string to the disposable picks, which have a small section of floss on a plastic stick. These offer a more straightforward approach to flossing, and they're easy to stash in places like your purse or glovebox to use whenever it's most convenient.
More home dental care
Rinsing with mouthwash is a good "finishing touch" on the other oral hygiene habits your Naperville dentist mentioned above. Mouthwash is also a great way to freshen your breath between brushing, and many dentists prescribe medicated rinses to their patients with gum disease. However, make sure you choose alcohol-free mouthwash, and make sure to use it directly after brushing and flossing for the best, most effective results.
For more information, contact Dental Pointe in Naperville, IL, at (630) 333-9571 for an appointment with one of the dentists on our team. We look forward to hearing from you!