Oral Hygiene Habits For Maintaining Optimal Oral Health

Oral hygiene is important to both your oral and overall health. By practicing good oral hygiene, you can reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Besides, if you don’t brush and floss, food particles will remain in your mouth, causing bacteria to grow. These bacteria then release foul-smelling gases. Practicing good oral hygiene helps you avoid bad breath by eliminating these food particles from the mouth. 

Here are a few healthy practices you should follow to maintain optimal oral health:

• Brush Twice A Day

You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, and if possible, brush your teeth after every meal. After eating, sugars and acids can attach to the tooth enamel. These acids start to break down the enamel and cause cavities. Brushing your teeth after every meal helps to remove those acids and sugars, helping to protect the tooth enamel.

• Floss Daily

Flossing daily is one of the most important habits for maintaining optimal oral health. Flossing cleans the tight spaces between your teeth and below the gum line where food particles and bacteria can hide.

• Use An Antiseptic Mouthwash

A mouthwash with antiseptic properties helps fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Antiseptic mouthwashes can help reduce plaque buildup and prevent gingivitis, which is an early form of gum disease. A mouthwash that contains fluoride can help strengthen the tooth enamel while freshening breath.

• Drink Water

Water is your best oral health care ally. It flushes bacteria from your mouth, helps remove food debris from your teeth, and keeps you hydrated. You should aim to drink at least 64 ounces of water per day. If plain water doesn’t appeal to you, add sliced cucumber, mint, or lemon to your water to make it more appealing.

• Eat Well

When it comes to maintaining and keeping your mouth healthy, diet may be just as important as brushing and flossing. Consume a variety of healthy foods, including vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, as they can lead to tooth decay.

• Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Your dentist is the best person to help you maintain optimal oral health. Visiting the dentist regularly can help identify potential problems early on, preventing them from turning into more serious issues. The appointments are short and painless, so the time commitment is minimal, and the benefits are all the better for it.

• Avoid Tobacco Products

Tobacco products can cause oral health problems. This includes gum disease and oral cancer. In addition to increasing your risk of cancer, tobacco products also stain your teeth. Brushing after tobacco use will not remove the tartar buildup caused by these products.

To learn more, call A Better Smile Dentistry at (505) 208-0505 and schedule an appointment with the dentist or visit us at 475 Coors Blvd NW, Ste A, Albuquerque, NM 87121.