Good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist regularly can help prevent problems like cavities, gum disease and more. If gum problems do occur, the early gum disease treatment in SW Calgarywill prevent them from progressing further. But you might not know that there are some habits which can actually cause damage to your teeth. This guide is aimed at helping you to look after your teeth better by explaining the do’s and don’ts of oral hygiene.
The Do’s of Oral Hygiene
1. Brush Your Teeth at least Twice a Day
It is important to brush your teeth to remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can cause cavities, gum disease and more. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes once in the morning and another one before bedtime.
2. How to Floss Properly
Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot reach. To floss properly:
- Use about 18 inches of dental floss.
- Wrap the floss around your fingers and gently slide it between your teeth.
- Curve the floss around each tooth and move it up and down.
- Be gentle to avoid hurting your gums.
Flossing once a day is an important part of healthy oral hygiene habits.
3. Use Mouthwash for Oral Hygiene
Mouthwash helps remove bacteria and freshens breath. Some mouthwashes also contain fluoride, which helps protect teeth from cavities. To use mouthwash properly:
- Pour the recommended amount into a cup.
- Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds.
- Spit it out—do not swallow.
Using mouthwash for oral hygiene is a good addition to brushing and flossing.
4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing a dentist every six months is important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental check-ups help detect cavities, clean your teeth, and identify early signs of gum disease. If you have any tooth pain or bleeding gums, visit your dentist right away to prevent further oral problems.
5. Eat Tooth-Friendly Foods
Some foods help keep your teeth strong and healthy. Eat:
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, yogurt (rich in calcium) and more
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots (help clean teeth) and more
- Nuts and seeds (contain minerals that strengthen teeth)
Drinking enough of water also helps to remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth.
The Don’ts of Oral Hygiene
1. Don’t Brush Too Hard
Brushing too hard can wear down tooth enamel and cause gum irritation. Use gentle circular motions and avoid scrubbing too forcefully.
2. Don’t Skip Flossing
Some people think brushing is enough, but flossing is just as important. If you skip flossing, plaque can build up between your teeth and lead to cavities, gum disease and more.
3. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Using your teeth to open packages, bite nails, or chew on ice can damage them. This can lead to cracks, chips, or even broken teeth.
4. Don’t Eat Too Many Sugary Foods
Consumption of sugary foods and drinks can cause cavities. Bacteria in your mouth turn sugar into acid, which wears down tooth enamel. Limit intake of candy, soda, and other sugary treats. If you eat them, brush your teeth afterward.
5. Don’t Ignore Dental Problems
If you have tooth pain, bleeding gums, or bad breath, do not ignore it. These can be signs of cavities, gum disease, or infections. Visit a dentist as soon as possible to prevent serious problems.
Wrapping Up
Taking care of your teeth and gums is easy if you follow these do’s and don’ts. Brush and floss daily, use mouthwash for oral hygiene and visit your dentist at a dental clinic in SW Calgary regularly. A dentist can help you maintain good oral health by checking for oral problems early. Avoid habits like brushing too hard, skipping flossing, and eating too much sugary food. By following these steps, you can keep your smile healthy for a lifetime.
Protect Your Smile With Good Oral Hygiene and Expert Care!
If you are looking for a caring and professional dental clinic, Cedarbrae Family Dental is here for you. Our team of SW Calgary dentist provides gentle and expert care for patients of all ages. From regular checkups to advanced treatments, we focus on keeping your teeth healthy and your smile bright. We use the latest technology to ensure the most favourable results from the treatment.
Book your dental appointment today at Cedarbrae Family Dental!