10 tips to boost your oral hygiene routine

Keeping your teeth, gums and mouth healthy doesn’t have to be hard work, and you can always learn new tips to keep your oral hygiene up to scratch.

That’s the message of our latest post. We’re going to offer you some easy tips that you can incorporate into your everyday routine to keep that smile sparkling!

Everyone can learn something new when it comes to their health, so let’s take a look at our best oral hygiene tips.

Tip 1: Brush twice a day

Oral hygiene starts with brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. And no matter how tired you are at night, don’t skip that vital bedtime brush to remove the plaque and germs that build up during the day.

Tip 2: Get flossing

Brushing alone isn’t enough to keep your teeth clean and free of debris that can get stuck in gaps. You should also be flossing once a day to remove as much plaque and food particles as possible and keep your gums healthy.

Tip 3: Replace your toothbrush regularly

Brushing with an old toothbrush laden with germs isn’t going to do your mouth any favours. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles look worn or you have been unwell.

Tip 4: Follow a healthy diet

A healthy diet is a tooth and gum-friendly diet. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can wear away tooth enamel. Instead, reach for crunchy fruits and vegetables and choose water to drink whenever possible.

Tip 5: Quit smoking

Smoking and chewing tobacco put you at higher risk of gum disease, tooth loss and oral cancer. Quitting is one of the best things you can do for your oral hygiene care.

Tip 6: Include mouthwash in your routine

Use mouthwash after your brush to reduce acid, clean areas that are hard to reach and replenish mineral content in the teeth. You’ll benefit from fresher breath too.

Tip 7: Know how to spot gum disease

Know the signs of gum disease so you can get treatment quickly. They include bleeding, bright red, swollen or receding gums, unpleasant breath, pain when chewing, loose teeth and toothache.

Tip 8: Brush up on your technique

For effective toothbrushing, hold your brush at a 45-degree angle and position the bristles under the gumline. Use firm but gentle pressure to brush each area in a circular motion. And make sure you brush for two minutes for the optimal routine.

Tip 9: Don’t forget your tongue

Did you know that plaque can build up on your tongue? That’s why you should brush it too. Use a small amount of fluoride toothpaste on a brush, and brush gently but firmly in a back-and-forth motion.

Tip 10: Keep your dental appointments

When was the last time you went for a dental check-up? If it was further back than six months, you are due for a visit to your dentist. Dental examinations are essential to ensure the health of your teeth, gums and mouth. Not only will your dentist be able to spot and treat any issues in the early stages before they get more serious, but they can also advise on brushing and flossing techniques and many other aspects of your dental health.

Give us a shout!

We hope you’ve been inspired by our tips on keeping your smile healthy and looking good!

The team at Somersmiles Dental firmly believe that it’s never too late to try something new. So why not incorporate one or more of our tips into your dental routine?

And if you’re due a check-up, give us a shout. We serve old and new patients living in the Somerville, Frankston, Mornington and Tooradin areas and love nothing more than helping them achieve the healthy smile they deserve.