8 Oral Hygiene Tips

Louisville, KY

Your teeth are built to last, but age, diet, lifestyle choices and oral hygiene will dictate just how strong your teeth will remain over the course of your life. That’s why, today on the blog, your Shepherdsville family dentists at Exceptional Dentistry composed 8 oral hygiene tips.

Tip 1: Brush your teeth before bed – every time

There’s a saying some dentists go by: “Brush your teeth in the morning to keep your friends. Brush your teeth at night to keep your teeth.” When you neglect brushing before you go to bed, all the bacteria and plaque that accumulated in your mouth during the day get to linger on your teeth and gums all night long. That’s more time for these substances that fuel cavities to potentially create new areas of decay.

Tip 2: How you brush matters

To be clear, that means brushing with the right kind of brush; the American Dental Association recommends a soft-bristled toothbrush and changing out your toothbrush every three to four months as the bristles wear down. You also need to use the right technique, moving your toothbrush in gentle, circular motions. Brush too hard, which is known as over brushing, and you could actually do harm to your teeth by wearing away the enamel.

Tip 3: Don’t forget your tongue

Plaque can build up on your tongue as well as your teeth and gums. An accumulation of tongue bacteria and plaque can affect your breath and lead to other oral health issues. The lingering bacteria on your tongue could spread to your teeth and gums, leading to cavities and gum disease. Brushing your tongue is also good for your taste buds!

Tip 4: Use a fluoridated toothpaste

Fluoride has been used as a defense against tooth decay for decades and it remains a fixture in oral health and oral care products. The ADA advises that you brush using a toothpaste that contains fluoride; just look for any product that has the ADA seal of approval on the packaging.

Tip 5: Flossing is a requirement

Flossing your teeth once a day is just as important as brushing twice a day. Unfortunately, the results of multiple surveys indicate that daily flossing is not as common as it should be, and many Americans do not even floss at all. Flossing is the only way to clean the spaces and crevices between your teeth, which no toothbrush can reach. If flossing is difficult for you or a family member, consider dental flossers or even a water pick.

Tip 6: Think about an oral rinse or mouthwash

A good quality mouthwash has several benefits. It reduces the overall acidity in the mouth, remineralizes teeth and can help reach hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as those in and around the gums. If you have children or sensitive teeth or both, ask your dentist in Louisville to recommend a brand of mouthwash.

Tip 7: Hydrate

When it comes to choosing a drink, water remains the best option for both your overall and oral health. It is calorie-free and sugar-free. Water also increases saliva production, helping to wash away any sugars or acids that may linger in the mouth between brushings.

Tip 8: See your dentist once every six months

The ADA advises seeing your dentist twice a year for a checkup. At Exceptional Dentistry, this appointment includes a thorough professional dental cleaning and an examination of your teeth and mouth by one of our experienced dentists. If you’ve lapsed in your schedule of dental visits or you’re seeking a new dentist, Exceptional Dentistry now is accepting new patients. Schedule your consultation today by calling (502) 423-7868 or contact us online.