8 Good Oral Health Habits Recommended by Your Dentist

You already brush and floss every day. Isn’t that enough to have healthy teeth? Unfortunately, cavities can still happen to those of us who follow those rules. There are a few more things you need to do to make sure your oral health is the best it can be. Read on as a dentist gives 8 habits to add to your routine in order to keep your mouth healthy.

1. Always Brush Your Teeth Before Bed

Ideally, you should brush your teeth after every meal, but it’s especially important at night. When you skip brushing before bed, germs and plaque are left to accumulate in your mouth, putting you at greater risk for cavities and gum disease.

2. Don’t Forget to Brush Your Tongue

Many of us brush our teeth just fine, but neglect the tongue. When you don’t brush your tongue, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria that not only cause bad breath, but tooth decay as well. Take a few extra seconds when brushing your teeth to pay attention to your tongue.

3. Floss at Least Once a Day

Even if you brush every single day, you can still develop gum disease and cavities if you don’t floss. This is because bacteria can build up in between the teeth. The only way to get rid of those germs is flossing. Add flossing to your nightly routine, so bacteria cannot accumulate in your mouth during the night.

4. Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash does a lot more than freshen your breath. It can actually clean areas of the teeth and gums that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or floss. They also re-mineralize your teeth, increasing their resistance to decay and infection. Rinse with mouthwash after brushing and flossing to help your mouth get extra clean.

5. Stay Hydrated

There are very few health problems that can’t be solved by drinking more water, and a dirty mouth is no exception. Water washes away excess food particles that can get stuck in your teeth and cause cavities. If you’re in a situation where you can’t brush your teeth after you eat, swish some water around in your mouth.

6. Eat Fresh Fruits and Veggies

Fresh, crunchy produce is much better for your teeth than processed foods and veggies. In addition, you’ll be supplying your body with valuable nutrients.

7. Don’t Eat Too Many Sugary and Acidic Foods

Sugar can erode the enamel of your teeth, leading to increased risk of decay and sensitivity. Acidic foods can as well. If you’re going to eat foods like candy, coffee, or citrus fruits, eat them sparingly.

8. See Your Dentist Every Six Months

Even people who follow all of these habits need to go to the routine dental checkups twice a year. Your dentist can diagnose early problems and treat them before they become a huge issue. Your dental hygienist can also remove built-up plaque, called tartar, with special tools and prevent it from causing severe decay.

By following these habits, you can have a healthier, happier mouth. Add them to your daily routine, and your future self will thank you!

About the Author

Dr. Jon Davidson opened Dental Dynamics in Skokie, IL in 2002 and looks forward to welcoming new patients. He achieved his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Detroit Mercy. Every year he pursues much more than the minimum requirement of continuing education hours, because he cares about making sure his patients receive the most up-to-date dental care they can. To learn more about he can help you build great oral health habits, click here or call (847)-329-9801.