Proper oral hygiene, both at home and during dental visits, can play a huge role in overall health. Unfortunately, many people either don’t know the basics of proper oral hygiene or are rusty due to lack of practice. Numerous studies have shown that dental health is linked to health in nearly every other part of the body, from cardiac health to immune system health. A high-quality dental team not only offers comprehensive cleaning services, but also takes the time during each visit to re-train patients on proper oral hygiene techniques.
Here are some of the most common oral hygiene problems that are relatively easy to address before it is too late. For more information on the best oral hygiene tactics for you, talk with your dentist. Everyone is different, but most people can benefit from foundational oral health. Beware of these barriers to proper hygiene:
1. Not enough brushing
At the bare minimum, the American Dental Association recommends brushing for at least two minutes twice per day (morning and evening). However, two minutes can seem like an extremely long time. One of the easiest ways to make that benchmark is by keeping an egg timer in your bathroom (or wherever you brush). In many Southeast Asian countries, travel toothbrushes and toothpaste are carried everywhere for brushing after meals, snacks and beverages, which is a good habit to adopt.
2. Lack of flossing
If you don’t floss regularly, it’s nearly as bad as not flossing at all. Flossing can be especially challenging for people with braces, but there are tricks to getting it done. Brushing doesn’t get into the nooks, crannies and deep between teeth like flossing does. Floss at least once per day for maximum benefits.
3. Too many bad foods
As long as foods, are natural, they aren’t really bad, but some foods are bad for your teeth. Acidic foods like berries, dark beverages like coffee and wine, and hard foods like peanut brittle can all wreak havoc on your teeth. This doesn’t mean you need to give up your favorite foods entirely, but adjustments (like drinking dark sodas with a straw to bypass your teeth) can be helpful.
4. No mouthwash and no fluoride in the water
Fluoride is one of the best ways to safeguard teeth, especially for children – although anyone of any age can benefit. Some cities add fluoride to tap water, but some don’t. Using an alcohol-free mouthwash once per day, preferably before bed, can give you that added layer of protection.
The biggest faux pas of all is not seeing your dentist regularly. Keep those appointments and use them as a time to hone your techniques for proper oral hygiene.