We’re officially in October, and do you know what that means? It’s National Dental Hygiene Month! Although taking proper care of your teeth and gums is important year-round, you should take this time to be more aware of your oral health. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a few helpful tips. You can celebrate this special time of the year by incorporating these oral hygiene tips into your everyday routine.
Use a Proper Brushing Technique
For as long as you can remember, you’ve been told to brush your teeth at least twice a day for a healthy smile. While it’s certainly important to meet that guideline, you also need to make sure that you’re brushing properly. Otherwise, you could be doing more harm than good to your pearly whites.
To effectively clean your teeth, carefully move your toothbrush in gentle and circular motions. There’s no rush here, so take your time! Following the right technique will help remove plaque and unwanted bacteria. If you brush the wrong way, any leftover plaque can harden, leading to calculus buildup and gingivitis.
Clean Your Tongue
Believe it or not, plaque can also build up on your tongue. Regularly cleaning your tongue can lower your risk of bad breath (halitosis) and other oral health problems. It’s a good idea to get into the habit of gently brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
Floss Every Day
You may be surprised to learn that brushing alone cannot effectively keep your mouth clean. Flossing at least once a day is crucial for removing little pieces of food and other unwanted debris from between your teeth. It’s the only way to effectively clean the nooks and crannies in your mouth. Plus, it helps stimulate the gums, reduce plaque, and lower inflammation in the area.
Drink Plenty of Water
There’s nothing better than water to quench your thirst. It’s the best drink for your oral and overall health. To reap the benefits, you should drink water after every meal. It’ll help wash away food particles, bacteria, and other unwanted debris in between brushing sessions.
Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
Aside from having a solid at-home oral hygiene routine, everyone should visit their dentist twice a year for a routine checkup and cleaning. These appointments allow your dentist to remove calculus and check for oral health issues, like cavities and infections. With early intervention, you can keep your mouth healthy and avoid needing complex treatments down the line.
A healthy smile can do wonders for your overall confidence and well-being. By incorporating these oral hygiene tips into your daily routine, you can put yourself on the path toward a lifetime of good dental health!
About the Practice
At Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington, we proudly offer comprehensive, top-rated, and personalized dental care unlike anywhere else. From routine checkups to complex restorative treatments to state-of-the-art dental implants, we’ve got everything you need for a healthy smile in one convenient location. In addition, we value patient education to help you make the best decisions for your dental health. For more oral hygiene tips, visit our website or call (202) 364-8989.