The Importance of Proper At-Home Oral Care

These hygiene tips will make sure that your smile is as clean as possible

How you care for your smile has the biggest impact on your long-term oral and general health. If you aren’t brushing and flossing regularly, as you should, you could fall victim to gum disease and decay. Our Thornton, CO, dentist Dr. Christina McMillon wants everyone to walk out of the office with a clean bill of health, and the best way to do that is to practice good at-home oral care.

Here are some habits to adopt right now for a healthier smile and a healthier you,

Brushing Your Teeth

When it comes to brushing your teeth make sure that you are,

• Brushing at least twice a day
• Brushing after each meal if you have braces
• Brushing your teeth with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Brushing both the front and back surfaces of your teeth, angling the brush 45 degrees
• Brushing your tongue and gums
• Brushing for at least two minutes each time you brush
• Replacing your toothbrush head once bristles begin to wear (about every 3-4 months)

Flossing Your Teeth

Along with brushing you should also make sure that you are,

• Flossing at least once a day
• Flossing ideally at night, so that plaque that has built up throughout the day is removed before bedtime
• Using a generous amount of floss (approximately 18 inches)
• Using a clean section of floss for each tooth
• Using threader floss to clean between braces or partial bridges

Eating for Your Smile

We already know that our diet impacts our health, so it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that what you eat also affects your teeth and gums. The cavities that our Thornton, CO, dentist treats usually could have been prevented through good oral hygiene and a healthier smile. Reduce your risk for cavities and gum disease by following these dietary suggestions,

• Your diet should consist of the five food groups: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein and (low-fat) dairy
• Reduce sugar consumption
• Read labels on all foods and drinks beforehand to check the sugar content
• Avoid these foods and drinks as much as possible
• Snack in moderation
• Make sure to drink enough water every day to flush out toxins and bacteria

If you are dealing with an urgent matter, or to schedule a preventive visit, please call Dr. Christina O. McMillon of Hearthside Dentistry in Thornton, CO at (303) 280-2285.