A great oral hygiene routine for optimal dental care is a daily practice. It can help prevent oral health issues that can cause suffering and discomfort. Poor oral health can affect your overall health and well-being and taking care of your oral health is not too difficult. Here are some top 10 oral health tips to practice daily.

Brushing Your Teeth

Ensure you brush your teeth at least twice daily after meals, particularly before bed. Brushing before bed will help get rid of bacteria and food debris that have accumulated throughout the day. Brush thoroughly for at least four minutes.

Flossing Every Day

Brushing your teeth is not enough to remove food debris and germs that hide in hard-to-reach areas. Flossing will help remove plaque and bacteria between the teeth and under the gumline. It also helps stimulate the gums, reducing plaque and lowering inflammation.

Proper Brushing Technique

It is not enough to simply brush your teeth; you need to do so correctly. Use a good toothbrush and brush in circular motions. Take your time to ensure you remove all the plaque. It will help prevent buildup and gingivitis. Additionally, do not overlook your tongue when brushing your teeth.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

When choosing toothpaste, choose one that contains fluoride regardless of the brand. Fluoride helps protect the teeth from decay. It helps fight the germs that cause decay while creating a protective barrier for the teeth.

Use a Mouthwash Daily

Rinse your mouth using a good mouthwash daily to clear debris that can irritate the gum. Mouthwash helps kill germs that can build up in the mouth by reaching where brushing and flossing cannot access. Mouthwash helps reduce acid in the mouth and re-mineralizes teeth.

Eat Nutritious Meals

What you eat will affect your teeth and gums. Consume more fresh vegetables and crunchy fruit. Foods with fiber encourage chewing, which is good for healthy teeth and strong jaws. Avoid or limit consumption of sugary, acidic, and processed foods that can harm the teeth’s enamel. 

Drink Plenty of Water

Water is vital for overall health, and it also helps keep teeth free from debris. Drinking water after meals helps wash away acidic and sticky foods and sugary beverages between brushings. Water keeps the mouth lubricated, keeping the teeth, gums, and oral tissue healthy.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking is harmful to your immune system, overall health, and even harmful to your oral health. Smoking can make it hard for oral tissues to heal after dental procedures. It affects dental appearance by staining the teeth, and it causes bad breath. 

Regular Dental Visits

Visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleaning will help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Even the most diligent brushing and flossing routine can miss some spots. The dentist will clean the teeth, look for signs of cavities, and provide treatment solutions.

Wear a Mouthguard

Protect your teeth by wearing a mouthguard if you participate in contact sports. If you clench or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard will help prevent tooth damage. Talk to your dentist about a custom mouthguard that will fit comfortably.

For more oral health tips from your dentist, visit MAC Family Dentistry at our Mandeville, Louisiana office. Call (985) 238-3797 to schedule an appointment today.