When it comes time to complete your oral hygiene regimen, do you usually do so on autopilot? If the answer is “yes,” then it’s important to revisit the habits you have in place to make sure you’re taking good care of your teeth and gums. If you aren’t quite sure where to begin, then keep reading to learn five important oral hygiene practices you should never skip!
1. Brush Your Teeth for a Full Two Minutes
There is a “2×2” rule when brushing: two minutes, twice a day. Despite this, studies have shown that the average person only brushes their teeth for about 45 seconds. To make sure that you thoroughly remove food particles, plaque, and other debris from your teeth, use the stopwatch on your phone to make sure you don’t miss the mark!
2. Floss Every Day
Remember, flossing isn’t optional. In fact, it’s just as important as brushing! So, no matter how tired you are in the early hours of the morning or how unmotivated you are when you come home late, you need to floss. Otherwise, the food particles and other debris that’s trapped between your teeth will stay there, increasing your risk of tooth decay in the process.
3. Rinse with Mouthwash for 30-60 seconds
Did you know that your bottle of mouthwash includes directions, including how long to swish the solution around in your mouth? Usually, it’s between 30-60 seconds. Like the “2×2” rule with brushing, many patients just go on autopilot, resulting in them not using it for the recommended amount of time. To prevent that from happening, use the tools you have around you, like your alarm clock!
4. Clean Your Tongue
Be honest… Do you clean your tongue when completing your oral hygiene regimen? If you don’t, then start doing so now! That way, a white, sticky substance doesn’t start to accumulate, resulting in a pungent, unpleasant odor on your breath.
Tip: When cleaning your tongue, move from back to front to avoid accidentally swallowing what’s on the surface!
5. Visit Your Dentist Twice a Year
There’s a common misconception that you don’t need to visit your dentist until you’re in pain. Or that biannual visits are optional as long as you take good care of your teeth at home. That’s not the case! After all, tooth decay, gum disease, and the like can develop under the radar. Plus, your dental team checks for other health issues, like oral cancer. So, don’t skip your semi-annual appointments!
About the Practice
Our top-rated team at Yenzer Family Dental of Chesterfield is here to help you with all things oral health – from sharing which oral hygiene products to use to providing routine cleanings. When it does come time to schedule your appointment, you’ll be happy to know that we offer convenient appointment times, including early mornings, and we welcome multiple financial solutions to ensure your care fits in your budget. To get in touch with us, visit our website or call (636) 778-3019.