Good oral hygiene is a must if you want a bright, healthy smile that will light up your social life. Taking good care of your teeth and gums will also help you avoid gum problems, cavities, and tooth decay that can cause pain and ruin your day.
At Carrum Downs Dental Group, we want to help you take the best care of your teeth. Follow these five simple tips; your breath will be fresh, and your smile will shine.
- Use an antibacterial mouth rinse
Antibacterial mouthwash comes in many flavours and types. Some just freshen your breath, while others fight cavities and gum disease. Using mouthwash every couple of weeks will kill the bad bacteria that live on your teeth and tongue.
Check the label to see what your mouthwash does before you buy it. Some will make your teeth stronger, while others focus on stopping decay and disease.
- Use a very soft toothbrush.
A toothbrush with soft bristles can easily get in all the tight spaces between your teeth. Soft brushes are also gentler on your gums. This helps keep your gums from shrinking back and your teeth from getting worn down, which can make them sensitive.
A soft brush will clean your teeth well without damaging your enamel. Ask your dentist about the best type of brush and how to use it the right way.
- Floss everyday
Every time you eat, a sticky film called plaque gets stuck on and between your teeth and your tongue. Candy and other sticky foods can make this worse. Plaque can damage braces and cause cavities if it sits on your teeth too long.
Flossing every day cleans plaque and food particles off your teeth and tongue. Floss can reach deep between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t, clearing out hidden plaque.
- Don’t brush too hard.
Brushing daily is important, but brushing too hard can hurt your teeth. Brushing hard, especially with a stiff brush, can scratch your tooth enamel and make your teeth chip or develop dents. This can cause pain when you chew, making your teeth sensitive to cold.
You might be brushing too hard if your gums are sore, red, or pulling back from your teeth. Lighten up and use a soft brush instead.
- See your dentist regularly.
There’s no single perfect way to keep your mouth healthy. The bacteria in your mouth are different from your friends’ bacteria, so the same toothpaste or mouthwash might not work the same for you.
Your dentist is the only one who can tell you the best way to take care of your unique smile. Regular check-ups let your dentist find and treat problems like cavities and gum disease early before they cause too much harm.
Conclusion
See your dentist often to keep your smile bright and avoid pain and problems down the road. Your dentist will check for any damage, clean your teeth well, and tell you the best ways to keep your mouth healthy between visits.
Make an appointment at Carrum Downs Dental Group today. We’ll help you get the bright, healthy smile you deserve!