3 Oral Hygiene Habits You Should Never Skip (But Probably Do)

You may think that brushing and flossing are all that’s necessary to keep your teeth healthy. And while that may be the bulk of it, there are other essential practices that most people seem to forget. Skipping important steps in your at-home dental care routine can put your oral health at risk, leading to problems like cavities, bad breath, bleeding gums, and much more. So, what are these critical habits? Read along to find out what they are and why you should always follow them.

Replace and Clean Your Toothbrush Regularly

If you can’t remember the last time you replaced your toothbrush, then it’s probably time for a change. Dentists recommend replacing it every 3-4 months. Following this guideline is important because after some wear and tear, your toothbrush’s performance begins to decline. Once the bristles become splayed, they won’t be able to reach spots in between the teeth and along the gum line effectively, thus, losing their cleaning ability.

Additionally, you and your family can get sick from sharing a tube of toothpaste. Germs and bacteria like to hang out on a toothbrush, transferring to the toothpaste when using it. Swapping it out regularly will prevent you from getting sick and ensure you’re getting the most out of your brushing sessions.

Don’t Neglect Your Tongue

Cleaning your tongue is necessary to maintain good oral health and hygiene. Food particles can get trapped in the tiny bumps and crevices all over your tongue, attracting bacteria that can accumulate and lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Gently brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth to keep it clean and healthy.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

If you’ve gone shopping for toothpaste before, then you know how many different options there are. Whether it minimizes tooth sensitivity, fights cavities, or brightens your smile, always opt for one that contains fluoride. This mineral protects your teeth from harmful acids and bacteria. Using fluoridated toothpaste helps strengthen your enamel and prevents tooth decay.

Tips for Keeping Your Smile Healthy

Along with adopting the habits highlighted above, here are some tips to keep your mouth healthy:

• See your dentist regularly. Make sure you visit your dentist bi-annually for routine cleanings and checkups. They will be able to spot potential issues and offer treatment solutions.
• Consider using mouthwash. It has many added benefits aside from controlling bad breath. It can reduce the amount of acid in your mouth, re-mineralize teeth, and prevent cavities.
• Stay hydrated. Drinking water after every meal helps wash away any food particles that attract bacteria. It keeps your mouth clean in between brushing sessions.
• Limit sugary and acidic foods. Be mindful of foods that are highly acidic or contain lots of sugar. Overconsumption of sweet treats and acidic fruits, teas, and coffees can lead to cavities and enamel erosion.

If you weren’t aware of these dental care practices or simply have forgotten them, that’s okay—it’s never too late to improve your oral health! Start incorporating these habits and you’ll be well on your way towards keeping your smile beautiful and healthy.

About the Practice

Our main goal at Advanced Dental Care of Springfield is to help all our patients achieve a gorgeous, healthy, long-lasting grin. We ensure everyone is given consistently precise, effective, and comfortable dental care during every visit. Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting us regularly for checkups will help you enjoy a problem-free smile that never needs a second thought. Keep your oral health in its best shape and schedule an appointment with us today via our website or by calling (217) 546-3333.