Tips for a Great Home Oral Care Routine
May 25, 2022 2:08 am |Our team strives to help our patients understand the value of a great home oral care routine. After all, most common dental issues are preventable with daily oral hygiene and good oral health habits. Disease prevention can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.
Here are some tips to help you improve your oral care routine at home!
- Use Your Tools Correctly
- Morning & Night
- Teach Children By Example
The best tools for at-home hygiene are the ones that you’ll use properly every day.
A manual toothbrush can clean your teeth well if used right. However, many patients find it more enjoyable and easier to brush with an electric toothbrush. One thing we particularly like about electric toothbrushes is that many have built-in timers that remind you to brush for the full recommended two minutes. If you’re someone who tries to rush by brushing more vigorously for less time, you are doing more harm than good. Aggressive brushing can damage tooth enamel and irritate gums.
String floss and a water flosser will remove food particles and bacteria from between the teeth and under the gums that your toothbrush can’t reach.
If you have braces, you will benefit from floss threaders, a water flosser, and interdental brushes.
A great home oral care routine is a daily habit.
Aim to brush your teeth at roughly the same time each morning and night to help it become second nature. Remember to brush your tongue! And don’t forget about flossing. We recommend flossing at night to remove the built-up debris from your day.
Parents and caregivers have the ultimate influence in helping your children establish good health habits. Show your kids that you take good care of your smile with daily oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and routine dental visits.
Daily oral care can be fun quality time together. (You can even include the family dog by brushing their teeth with an enzymatic toothpaste and dog toothbrush!) As soon as your child gets their first tooth, start brushing with a baby toothbrush and toothpaste. Begin flossing when at least two teeth are touching. As your child becomes more capable, they can transition to brushing their teeth with your supervision.
To ask our team any questions about your family’s home oral care or to schedule your next routine cleaning and checkup at New Columbia Dentistry, please contact us today!
Categorised in: Dental Tips, Oral Hygiene, Preventive Dental Care