Top Tips For Amazing Oral Hygiene

So many of our patients tell us they used to dread a trip to the dentist – we’re happy to say that’s changed since they found us. But we also think that, secretly, most of us would rather be doing something else when we’re paying a visit to our dental practice.

The truth is, though, that there’s a lot we can do between trips to the dentist to make sure we’re in the chair for as short a time as possible. A good dentist doesn’t just see you every six months – they arm you with the knowledge to maintain your oral hygiene throughout the year, so every appointment is as easy as possible.

Maintaining good oral hygiene helps prevent infections and keeps your breath fresh. If you’ve noticed changes in the way your mouth looks and feels, your current routine may need updating – so always keep an eye out for things you might be doing differently or better. Here are our top tips for amazing oral hygiene, to help you work with your dentist rather than avoid them.

1. Use Floss Regularly

Flossing is an important part of any dental routine, as it allows you to access hard-to-reach places. Food and plaque can get stuck between your teeth, causing bacteria which can in turn lead to infections. Regular flossing keeps germs at bay, so your gums don’t become irritated.

2. Visit A Dental Hygienist

If your brushing routine isn’t giving you the thorough clean you need, book an appointment with a dental hygienist. With this type of care, you can improve the condition of your teeth and gums, achieve a brighter smile and prevent gum disease. Not only will they give your teeth an in-depth clean using professional techniques, they can provide expert advice on how to keep this up at home too.

3. Change Your Toothbrush

When was the last time you changed your toothbrush? If you can’t remember, that’s a sign it needs replacing. It’s best to change your toothbrush every three to four months – over time, the bristles become flat, making them less effective at accessing hard-to-reach corners of your teeth and removing plaque. Freshen up your brush!

4. Reduce Your Intake Of Sugary Snacks

Eating too many sugary snacks on a regular basis can leave your teeth and gums in poor condition. Sugar can damage your enamel, leading to cavities and plaque. Try to limit the number of sugary foods you consume, and brush your teeth well to remove any build-up.

5. Eat Healthily

Like every other part of your body, your teeth and gums rely on the fuel you give them. They love calcium, which helps them maintain their health and strength – milk and cheese are your friends here, or beans and lentils if you’re vegan. All these foods are great sources of calcium, and if you also reduce your sugar intake, your teeth will be in great shape.

6. Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol can actually kill the bacteria in your mouth that usually fight off the kind that damage your teeth and gums. Not only might that tempting glass include quite a bit of sugar, it also actively reduces your mouth’s ability to look after itself – which is why most dentists recommend limiting your alcohol intake and brushing your teeth after drinking.

7. But Stay Hydrated

Replacing wine with water might not sound exciting, but it is medically recommended. A dry mouth is bad for your oral hygiene: keeping yourself hydrated encourages the production of saliva, which includes everything your mouth needs to kill bad bacteria and foreign microbes. That water bottle is your friend!

Much of this might seem simple, but that’s what’s so effective about it: flossing, brushing twice a day with a fresh brush, and eating and drinking well can make all the difference to your oral hygiene. Not only will it improve your health and keep your breath fresh, it’ll pay dividends at the dentist too. Contact the Smile More team in Solihull for your dental consultation and to understand your oral hygiene.