To keep teeth and gums healthy, good dental hygiene is necessary. Though frequent dental appointments are essential, you can also develop good habits at home. In the interim between your next dental check-up, there are a few things you can do to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

Do you think you’ve got your dental hygiene routine down to a tee? Following a few simple routine tips, you can kick it up a notch.

1. Brush twice a day

Brushing your teeth is the most effective part of any dental hygiene routine and the easiest for you to accomplish at home. Brushing for at least two minutes, or around 30-seconds in each quadrant of your mouth and twice a day is recommended.

You should ensure your toothbrush makes contact with all of your teeth’s surfaces. Remember to use a daily brushing toothpaste and replace your toothbrush at least once every three months. Hard bristles might hurt your teeth, so choose one with gentle bristles.

2. Floss daily

Although toothbrush commercials claim to clean in between the teeth, floss or interdental brushes, which are specifically intended for these nooks and crannies, clean better. To avoid bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease, floss or an interdental brush should be used daily in between your teeth.

3. Use mouthwash

Mouthwash is an integral part of a good oral hygiene routine. Only a tiny amount of mouthwash is required, and it is recommended that you swish it about your mouth for at least 30 seconds. After each brushing and flossing session, rinse your mouth with mouthwash. Choose a fluoride mouth rinse to help build the enamel and prevent erosion.

4. Quit smoking

Gum disease has been linked to smoking for a long time. It includes several toxins that can mask the symptoms of gum disease, and because of these toxins, your plaque can be more aggressive and damage tooth tissue more quickly than a non-smoker. Weak teeth, gum infection and a reduced success rate for dental implants are more common in smokers.

5. Limit caffeine

Many of us rely on our morning cup of coffee to get through the day, but dark-coloured liquids like coffee and red wine can become embedded in the crevices of our enamel, causing yellowish stains that may require teeth whitening to clear. Coffee also includes acid, which can cause your enamel to deteriorate. If you still can’t get rid of your coffee habit, try consuming it differently. Using a straw to drink coffee ensures that it has the least amount of contact with your teeth.

6. Do not ignore your tongue

If left unclean, your tongue, like your teeth and gums, may become a breeding ground for a variety of bacteria. Consider getting a tongue scraper or a toothbrush with a scraper on the back to get rid of these bacteria. This little device will aid in the removal of bacteria and the improvement of your breath.

7. Visit your dentist regularly

Many people visit their dentists only when something is wrong, but x-rays and regular cleanings are two of the most important parts of your oral health care regimen. Preventive treatment can help in the detection of small problems before they become serious. This also helps in developing a comfortable and trusting relationship with your dentist. When that happens, it will be easier to communicate your concerns and fears, resulting in a more pleasant visit.

To sum up

It only takes a few minutes each day to maintain good dental hygiene. Even if you follow these tips, make sure you and your kids visit the dentist at least two times a year for a checkup and cleaning! Your dentist will be able to tell you how well your daily regimen is going and whether you need to make any changes during your checkup.