If you’re like most people, you probably brush your teeth twice and day and floss once. That’s a typical at-home oral hygiene routine for most of us. But if you’re doing that and still experiencing oral health issues, or if you just want to ensure that you’re doing everything you can to have healthy teeth and gums, there are other steps you can take as well. If you have relatively good oral health to begin with, and don’t suffer from any major problems – such as oral cancer or gum disease, for example – what follows is the best oral hygiene routine that you can practice each day at home:
- Brush twice a day, and make sure one of those times is after your last meal or snack and before you go to bed. This will get rid of food particles that would be more likely to feed bacteria if left in your mouth overnight.
- Be sure to brush properly. Move your toothbrush in gentle, circular motions across the surface of each tooth. Take your time, and don’t brush too hard since that can damage tooth enamel. Remember to brush your tongue as well, since bacteria can accumulate there.
- Use the right toothpaste. This can vary depending on your specific oral health concerns. Make sure the product you choose is ADA approved. If you’re concerned about tooth decay, choose a fluoride toothpaste. If you have sensitive teeth, use a product designed to reduce sensitivity. The selection of available products is huge, so ask your dentist for a recommendation if you’re not sure which is right for you.
- Floss at least once every day. If you do it only once, make sure it’s after you brush your teeth at night. Flossing twice a day – after each time you brush – is even better. Hold the floss firmly and move it in a “C” shape between each tooth.
- Use a water flosser. To really increase the effectiveness of flossing, add a water flosser to your routine. These instruments take a little practice, but after a week or so of using it every day, you’ll be a pro. Just follow the instructions, and use it every night – after you’ve already brushed and flossed.
- Rinse with an anti-microbial mouthwash. The final step in the best oral hygiene routine should include rinsing for 30 seconds with an anti-microbial mouthwash. This will help to eliminate bacteria that can accumulate and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. As is true with toothpaste, there are many brands available. Look for the ADA label of approval. And if you still can’t decide, ask your dentist for a recommendation.
By following this daily routine at home, and by visiting your dentist twice a year for routine exams and cleanings, you can be certain that you’re doing everything within your power to enjoy good oral health for a lifetime!
