For clean teeth and a bright smile, brush your teeth twice a day, preferably after breakfast and before bedtime. It might be tempting to rush through this twice-daily ritual, but you should brush your teeth for a minimum of two minutes each time. Combined with the right tools and technique, regular brushing helps to effectively remove plaque — a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth and contributes to gum disease and tooth decay.
While your toothbrush can remove most plaque, it cannot completely clean those hard-to-reach places between your teeth. That's why daily flossing is an essential part of your oral health care routine. When used correctly, floss can dislodge food particles and disrupt bacteria colonies that form along the gumline and between the teeth. Flossing helps prevent both cavities and gum disease.
Visit your dentist's office regularly for oral exams and professional cleanings. Regular dental visits can help identify oral health issues as early as possible and work to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Even if you are experiencing no symptoms, you may still have dental health problems only your dentist can diagnose. Many people schedule dental maintenance visits twice per year, but only your dental health professional can tell you how often you need checkups or oral cleanings based on your needs. If you are experiencing symptoms — such as tooth sensitivity, bleeding gums, or difficulty chewing — do not wait for your regular checkup. These symptoms may be a sign of a problem that requires immediate attention.
Not surprisingly, the foods you eat directly impact your oral health. Filling your plate with whole foods — like fresh vegetables and lean proteins — can help support a healthy smile. If you're looking to improve your oral health through the foods and beverages you consume, start with these three strategies:
When you dread an activity, you tend to put it off or avoid it altogether. So, find a way to add some fun into your oral care routine. Here are some ideas to start:
Investing time and care into your oral health can provide lasting benefits. Follow these five tips to help keep your teeth and gums healthy and working as long as possible.
This article is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
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