Be honest… Is your dental care regimen not really a regimen at all? If so, that’s okay – there’s no time like the present to see where improvements can be made to keep your teeth decay-free and your gums infection-free. If you’re not quite sure where to start, then keep reading to learn five oral hygiene practices you shouldn’t skip and why!
1. Flossing Each Morning or Evening
According to Spotlight Oral Care, a whopping 58% of people never floss. Not only that, but roughly 47% only floss on a weekly basis. If you fall into either of these statistics, it’s important to know that brushing alone only cleans about 60% of the surface of your teeth. To clean the remaining 40% (and reduce your risk of common oral health problems, like cavities), you need to floss!
2. Rinsing with Mouthwash for 30-60 Seconds
Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash has numerous benefits – from preventing plaque build-up to keeping your breath minty-fresh. So, if you aren’t already, use an ADA-approved one each morning or evening before bed. Make sure to follow the directions on the label too; 30-60 seconds is longer than you think!
3. Replacing Your Toothbrush Every Quarter
Using an old toothbrush to clean your teeth is like using a dirty sponge to clean your dishes; it doesn’t work! So, make sure that you replace yours every quarter (before the bristles get old, frayed, and dirty). If you want to cut back on plastic waste, then consider getting an electric one. That way, you can replace the head instead of the entire toothbrush!
4. Cleaning Your Tongue
Oftentimes, patients focus solely on their teeth and gums. However, your tongue takes up a lot of real estate in your mouth! To prevent a white, sticky, and smelly film from developing on the surface, you should clean it every day with a tongue scraper. You can also use the bristles of your toothbrush. Just make sure to clean from the back of your tongue to the front.
5. Getting a Dental Checkup and Cleaning Biannually
There’s a common misconception that dental checkups and teeth cleanings are optional. Quite the opposite is true: they play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay, removing plaque build-up, and catching oral cancer in the early stages. So, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit, it’s time to get your next appointment on the calendar!
About the Practice
Dr. Steven Kendrick and the rest of our dental team in Midwest City share a goal of helping each person who walks through our office doors achieve a healthy, happy smile. That’s why we offer a wide range of preventive dental treatments and utilize the latest dental technology, like Overjet Dental AI, to catch tooth decay in the initial stages. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment with us, then get in touch via our website or by phone at (405) 732-0431.