Good oral hygiene helps keep your teeth and gums healthy. Developing good oral hygiene habits can help you avoid problems that can become expensive, painful, and difficult to control. There’s more to oral hygiene than simple tooth brushing and dental checkups. Knowing what to do and how you can take care of your teeth can help you keep your teeth in good condition throughout your life.

Oral Health is More Than Cavities and Gum Disease

Oral health is vitally important. People who do not take proper care of their teeth can experience gum disease and tooth loss. This can lead to challenges at work, in school, and in life generally. Your teeth rely on each other to be effective. Loss of a single tooth can cause your other teeth to shift, which can lead to other dental challenges. Proper dental care is key to preventing such problems.

7 Steps to Healthy Teeth and Gums

Below are the seven most effective things you can do to take care of your teeth. Your dentist will help you create a more individualized treatment plan that will address your specific needs, so always follow the advice of your dentist first.

1. Brush Regularly But Not Aggressively

Aggressive brushing can wear down your gums, exposing the more vulnerable parts of your teeth. This can also lead to jaw bone deterioration and, ultimately, tooth loss. Brush with a soft toothbrush and use little pressure on your gums. To make your brushing effective, move your toothbrush in small circles over your teeth. Do not scrub. Do this twice per day, once in the morning and once before bed.

2. Use Fluoride

You probably get fluoride from your water supply, but if you don’t, there are other ways to integrate fluoride into your tooth brushing and tooth care routine. You can buy toothpaste and mouthwash that contain fluoride. Read the labels on the mouthwash and toothpaste products you buy, as not all oral hygiene products have fluoride in them.

3. Floss Once Daily

Floss once daily with traditional floss (instead of a dental pick). Your dentist can show you how to use floss the right way, so ask for a tutorial at your next dental appointment. If you have teeth that are hard to reach with traditional floss, you can use a dental pick to reach those areas.

4. Go to the Dentist Regularly

Most people see the dentist once every six months. You should, too – unless your dentist recommends something different for you. If you have a condition that needs to be monitored, then your dentist may recommend coming in more frequently.

5. Don’t Smoke

Smoking can weaken your immune system, which makes it harder for your body to fight problems like gum disease. Smoking also stains your teeth and causes dry mouth, which leads to bacteria in the mouth. Protect your teeth and gums – don’t smoke.

6. Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash freshens your breath and helps clean parts of your mouth that your toothbrush can’t access. Use mouthwash as a regular part of your oral care routine after brushing and flossing.

7. Limit Sugars and Starches

Sugars and starchy, refined carbohydrates are bad for your teeth, as well as your overall health. Limit your intake of sugars and starches. It’s better for your body and better for your teeth!

8. Drink water

Sugary drinks such as sodas and juices can contribute to the development of cavities. Limit the amount and frequency of these drinks, and choose water whenever possible.

Great Dental Care in Hutto

Solis Dental is a new practice in Hutto. We’re changing the dental experience for patients in Hutto, TX – and we’re accepting new patients! Find out more about how we’re changing oral hygiene in the Hutto area. Make your appointment today.