Maintaining good oral hygiene will protect your smile for a lifetime. It’s also linked to your overall health and helps reduce gum disease, tooth loss, and bad breath.
It’s a good idea to brush your teeth twice daily and floss once a day. Using mouthwash for fresher breath and at-home whitening products are additional, optional steps to better your oral health.
Floss Daily
Flossing is one of the most effective tools in your oral hygiene arsenal against gum disease, which is caused by the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Small gaps and tight spaces between teeth collect food debris and sugars from foods and drinks throughout the day, creating a place where harmful bacteria can grow. A toothbrush cannot reach these areas to remove the bacteria, which is why it is so important to floss at least once a day. To properly floss, break off a piece of dental floss that is 18 inches long and wind most of it around the middle finger of one hand and the rest around the index finger of the other hand. Gently slide a strand of floss between two teeth, curving it to hug the sides of the tooth and move up and down. After flossing between all teeth, unwind a fresh section of floss and repeat the process.
Schedule Your Checkup Today
It is important to visit the dentist on a regular basis. Your dentist will let you know the status of your oral health and may recommend additional procedures that can prevent future problems. Your dentist will also advise you on any changes in your brushing and flossing routine that can help your mouth stay healthy. Visit a 123Dentist location today to schedule your appointment. Visiting your dentist regularly can save you money, time, and aggravation in the long run. If you have any fear or anxiety about dental visits, tell your dentist right away. They are committed to helping you through the process and make your experience as comfortable as possible.
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