Oral hygiene is critical because it keeps your mouth clean and free of disease and bacteria. Brushing and flossing the teeth are essential; however, the details of your dental routine matter, and we are here to help you learn the ins and outs of a refined oral hygiene routine.
Why is Oral Hygiene Important?
Oral hygiene is a preventative practice for halting cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other issues before they become too problematic. Your oral health is linked to your body’s health and function. When an infection occurs in your mouth, the bloodstream can carry the bacteria to other areas, affecting heart health and potentially causing other severe health conditions. Maintaining proper care of your teeth and gums is essential to long-lasting health.
Morning Routine
In the morning, you must brush your teeth first thing for two minutes. Brushing your teeth before breakfast benefits your tooth enamel and overall health. It removes any plaque that develops overnight. You should brush your teeth with your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, leaning toward the gums to help remove plaque and bacteria accumulating in the gum line.
It is recommended that you rinse your teeth with a fluoride rinse to strengthen the enamel of the teeth and provide extra protection to the teeth.
Afternoon Routine
In the afternoon, you should use a “pipe-cleaner” bristled toothpick between your dental brackets if you have braces.
Brushing your teeth after eating lunch with a travel toothbrush is essential. This will help remove bacteria from the teeth before plaque develops. If you cannot brush your teeth after lunch, you should brush them as soon as you arrive home.
Nighttime Routine
Begin your nightly hygiene routine by rinsing your teeth with a Waterpik device. This will help reduce gingivitis, lower your risk of bleeding, and remove plaque from the teeth.
Afterward, brush your teeth for two minutes with PreviDent 5000. PreviDent 5000 is a prescription toothpaste designed to prevent cavities from forming while reducing any sensitivity or discomfort that you experience. This is formulated with sodium fluoride to strengthen the teeth and help the teeth resist decay caused by acid and bacteria. You must paint it on your teeth with your toothbrush and spit, and do not rinse your teeth or eat or drink afterward.
After doing so, you should floss between your teeth with Superfloss or Platypus teeth flossers. Flossing can help remove bacteria and plaque from areas your toothbrush cannot reach. You must also brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to clear bacteria from the mouth.
Contact Us
At South Meadows Dental & Orthodontics in Reno, NV, we look forward to educating you on oral health and helping you achieve prime dental hygiene. For more information or to schedule an appointment today, please contact us.