In today’s fast-paced world, there are times when we tend to neglect our oral health. Every one of us is at least guilty of collapsing straight to bed after a hard day at work—brushing and flossing already forgotten. No matter how busy our schedules may be, it’s paramount to take care of our dental health by making a few adjustments. In today’s article, we’ll be sharing with you these few practical tips.
Start incorporating effective brushing techniques.
A great smile always comes down to how you brush your teeth, and it’s also crucial to choose the right toothbrush for you. Although hard-bristled ones are tempting to get since they can get through the small crevices, they can be pretty hard on your gums. Dentists at Ivanhoe East Dental Clinic suggest you opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently brush off plaque and debris instead.
A good toothbrush must also be paired with fluoridated toothpaste since it helps strengthen your tooth enamel and prevents cavities from building up. With these two combined, it’s crucial to follow the proper brushing technique by brushing using gentle circular motions for at least two minutes. We also cannot stress how important it is to brush your tongue to prevent bacteria buildup and keep your breath fresh.
Make flossing a habit.
Many people dislike flossing due to the unfounded myth that it forms a gap between your teeth. Dentists have debunked this claim time and again, highlighting the importance of flossing since it removes plaque and food particles from your teeth. Flossing along the gumline also lowers your chance of acquiring gum disease, eliminating the probability that can lead to tooth loss or other health problems.
Another reason why people choose not to floss is because they’re too lazy to do so, finding the floss string too inconvenient to use. If you’re not fond of using those, consider using floss picks or water flossers for easier cleaning. You can ask your dentist for a good recommendation of what brand to buy and where to buy it.
Schedule regular dental check-ups.
Finally, make time to schedule at least two dental checkups a year. This is why it’s important to find a dentist near you so you can lessen the travel time and hassle of attending your appointment. Dental check-ups are crucial since these are the only times you get your teeth cleaned by a professional; you’d be surprised by the amount of tartar and plaque buildup at the end of your session.
Besides professional cleaning, your dentist can also check your oral cavity for potential issues and screen you for oral cancer. By doing so, you can work together on a treatment that works best for you. Additionally, your dentist can also recommend preventive treatments to help enhance your smile if they find no issues. Fluoride treatments are one of the most common procedures since they not only make your teeth appear brighter but also help strengthen and protect your tooth enamel. If your dentist also practices cosmetic dentistry, you can inquire if they offer teeth whitening or dental bonding, depending on what you want to achieve with your smile.
At the end of the day, these small adjustments are the foundation of having a great and healthy smile. So ensure you do these despite your busy schedules to achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
