Do you want to save money and time at the dentist’s office by achieving healthier teeth on your own, at home? It’s still important to visit the dentist twice per year, or every six months, for a routine cleaning and examination. However, a keeping up with a comprehensive oral health routine at home can help you ward off issues like cavities and gum disease that can require further dental visits.
You have probably heard about the importance of brushing and flossing your teeth for as long as you can remember. But there is a little more to these dental routines being important, they are vital. Below are some helpful hints that go into a little bit more detail. We present these tips to help you keep your oral health at its best in-between dental appointments.
Flossing and Brushing Thoroughly is Critical
You are likely already aware of the importance of daily flossing. If you are already doing so, kudos! If not, it is in your best interest to start if you are wanting to make better oral health a priority.
However, it is not enough to simply run floss haphazardly between the gaps of your teeth. Look in the mirror and make sure you are removing food particles and plaque buildup. Angle it from side to side to completely touch all surface space in the gap. Also make sure the floss reaches into the gum, as bacteria tends to amass in these pockets at the base of your teeth within the gum tissue. If you have extremely narrow teeth or struggle with holding onto dental floss, a water pick is a great alternative. A water pick is a handheld device that blasts a thin stream of water into the spaces of your teeth to remove particles that would otherwise be dealt with by floss.
Whether you use dental floss or a water pick, be sure to clean at least once per day – ideally twice!
Take the Next Step to Better Oral Health
It is not enough to simply scrape your toothbrush over your teeth a few times and call it a day. If you want to maintain healthy teeth, you must commit to a full brushing routine with the correct technique.
First things first, you should brush your teeth for about two full minutes. You can make this process more fun by putting on your favorite song while you brush. In terms of technique, be sure that you are brushing both the fronts and backs of your teeth. Many people make the mistake of only brushing the front sides of their teeth, allowing bacteria to continue accumulating on the opposite side. Make sure your brush is reaching the back of your mouth, as bacteria likes to hide there most. Pay special attention to all exposed sides of your molars as these teeth are tucked away in the furthest reaches of your mouth.
Would you like to learn about a family dentist offering not only routine cleanings and dental examinations, but also proper education about home oral health habits? Contact Zirker Family Dentistry today! Give us a call at (208)-502-8814 or reach us online.