How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Caring for your oral health with gum and tooth cleanings is very important. Here, our Dartmouth dentists are 10 tips for keeping your smile healthy for years to come.

1. Brush twice a day.

Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Ideally, you should brush when you wake up each morning and before you go to bed each night.

2. Floss once a day.

Flossing removed debris from between your teeth that can't be reached by brushing. Flossing your teeth each night will minimize the risk that tooth decay occurs between your teeth and will help to keep your gums healthy.

3. Visit the dentist regularly.

You should plan to visit your dentist for a hygiene cleaning and oral exams at least twice a year, every six months. These appointments give your teeth a professional deep cleaning and allow your dentist to identify and treat any issues that may be developing.

4. Eat a healthy diet.

Eating healthy foods is good for your body, including your teeth! Diets that are high in calcium and low in sugars will help to keep your teeth healthy and strong. Foods that are beneficial for your oral health include leafy greens, almonds, yogurt and cheese.

5. Avoid sugary drinks.

Drinking sugary beverages, like pop, on a regular basis can increase your risk of cavities. Instead, drink primarily water or milk, and try leaving sugary drinks for occasional treats.

6. Stay hydrated.

Drinking plenty of water can also help to prevent cavities. By remaining hydrated, you'll be able to maintain a flow of saliva that will wash away food particles that allow bacteria to grow if they aren't wash away from your teeth.

7. Add mouthwash to your routine.

Rinsing with mouthwash is a good addition to your daily brushing and flossing routine. It can help to kill bacteria in your mouth that can cause issues like cavities and gum disease.

8. Replace your toothbrush regularly.

You should change your toothbrush at least once every six months. You may consider replacing it sooner if the bristles have become stiff, or if you have recently fought off a cough or flu.

9. Don’t smoke.

One of the best things you can do for your oral, and overall, health is to quit smoking. Not only does smoking stain your teeth, it also increases your risk of developing gum disease and oral cancer.

10. Examine your mouth at home.

Try to examine the inside of your mouth regularly. If you notice anything that looks out of the ordinary such as lumps, bumps, or unhealed sores, make an appointment to get it checked by your dentist.