Taking care of your teeth and gums enables you to eat and talk in comfort, smile with confidence and live free from dental pain and common oral health problems including tooth decay and gum disease. Dr Tony Heilberg is the bayside family dental practice dedicated to creating a welcoming family-friendly environment to provide a better dental experience for every patient. Let’s have a look at how a good oral hygiene routine can improve your overall oral health.
Brush Twice Daily
Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day. While most people find it easy to include brushing their teeth in their morning routine, it’s easy to neglect brushing at night, especially after a long and tiring day. However, brushing before bed gets rid of the germs and plaque that accumulate throughout the day lowering your chance of cavities and other oral health problems.
Refine Your Brushing Technique
The way you brush your teeth is just as important as how often you do it. Take your time and brush gently and slowly, you should spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth. Move the toothbrush in small and gentle almost ‘jiggling’ motions to remove plaque and ensure you brush the inside surfaces as well – next to your tongue and palate. On the chewing surfaces, use a light back and forth motion. Be careful not to scrub too hard on your gums as you may cause them to recede and this can cause sensitivity issues. Choose a toothbrush with a soft, small head which is kinder on the gums and allows better access to back teeth. Electric toothbrushes are also helpful if used properly – they need guidance, just like a manual toothbrush!
Use A Fluoride Toothpaste
There are many toothpaste varieties on the market. Make sure you choose a non-abrasive toothpaste which contains fluoride. Fluoride fights germs and helps to harden tooth enamel, reducing the risk of decay.
Make Sure You Floss
Flossing should be done once or preferably twice a day as it helps to stimulate the gums, reduce plaque, and help lower inflammation. Use a slow and gentle sawing motion to place the floss between the teeth and then wrapping the floss around each tooth, draw it up and down and don’t forget the back side of your last tooth! If you find flossing difficult, there are many tools available that your dentist can introduce you to – it is not ‘one size fits all’ – every individual has different needs that benefit from different tools for interdental cleaning.
Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing and store it in an upright position, allowing it to air-dry until it’s used again. Also try to keep it separate from other toothbrushes in the same holder to prevent cross-contamination. Try to replace your toothbrush every 3—4 months or at the first signs of wear.
Have a Dental Check-Up Every 6-12 Months
A proper daily hygiene routine is essential to improving your overall oral health, however no matter how often and how thoroughly you brush and floss, it’s important to see a dentist for a check-up and clean regularly. During a dental check-up, calculus is removed and your dentist will look for cavities, they will also detect potential issues and offer treatment solutions.
Ongoing proper dental hygiene and early detection of problems with your gums, teeth and mouth will ensure a lifetime of good oral health. If you are concerned about your dental health or if you are looking for
for experienced professional bayside dentists for your next check-up, contact Dr Tony Heilberg Dentistry today. Conveniently located in Cheltenham, we strive to provide exceptional dental care while maximising patient comfort and satisfaction. For the dentist Parkdale, Cheltenham and bayside locals rely on, book an appointment today.
