Oral health is directly related to how clean our teeth and gums are, which means good oral health begins with a good oral hygiene routine. While professional dental exams are important, protecting your oral hygiene should begin at home.
Even if your dentist is the one who treats cavities and offers teeth cleanings, you’re responsible for ensuring you maintain your oral health with at-home care. As a matter of fact, daily dental hygiene practices are just as important as visiting the dentist for a check-up.
Keeping up with your oral hygiene protects against cavities, tooth discoloration, gum disease, and other issues like bad breath.
At-Home Oral Hygiene Practices
A healthy at-home dental care routine should only take a few minutes and consist of the following steps:
- Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, it’s recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, preferably electric, in the morning and at night. Brushing between meals and after consuming sugary snacks or drinks can also help protect your smile. - Floss
Flossing every day is an important part of any good dental care routine. This is because food particles will gather between your teeth, which means they can’t always be reached with a brush. If left to sit, they will develop into plaque and potentially lead to tooth decay and gum disease. - Eat A Balanced Diet
Eating well is not only good for your overall health, it’s also beneficial to your oral health. Make sure your diet consists of essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid indulging in too many sugary and acidic foods. You can also rinse your mouth with water after consuming foods that may stain your teeth, like coffee and red wine. - Visit Your Dentist Every 6 Months
It’s recommended that you receive a dental check-up and teeth cleaning twice a year. At Oak Lawn Smiles, our family dentist in Oak Lawn, IL will thoroughly examine your teeth to identify any problems. You will also receive a professional cleaning to remove debris or plaque that at-home brushing and flossing can’t reach.
Contact Us at Oak Lawn Smiles for More Information
At Oak Lawn Smiles, we strive to provide our patients with the best dental care possible. This includes at-home oral hygiene instructions that will protect your smile throughout your life. We also offer a number of professional dental services, including cosmetic dentistry, emergency dental care, and dental implants in Oak Lawn.
If you feel like you need some assistance planning your at-home dental care routine, contact Oak Lawn Smiles. Our team is always here to help you and your family maintain optimal oral health!
