The Truth About Oral Care

1. Invest in a GOOD toothbrush

A cheap, weak toothbrush is not going to cut it with your oral health. For one thing they won’t last for very long and for another thing they are not nearly as effective as slightly pricier brushes. Power or electric toothbrushes are most ideal because they can give your teeth the most thorough cleanse. However, any quality toothbrush that contains soft, gentle bristles are perfect for scrubbing away plaque without scrubbing off the enamel with it. The most important thing you should know about toothbrushes is that no matter how good they start out, they will eventually grow old and wear out. A really good toothbrush can last as long as three to four months. After that you must replace it so that your teeth can receive the best possible care they deserve.

2. Learn How to Brush (REALLY Brush)

Believe it or not, there are a lot of people who truly don’t know how to brush their teeth the right way. Make sure that when you begin brushing that you hold your toothbrush at a forty-five degree angle towards the gumline. Brush in front, behind, on the side and on the surface of the teeth in short back and forth motions. Every teeny, tiny part of the tooth’s exterior should be gently (but thoroughly) scrubbed down and there should be zero food particles left inside the mouth. Brushing your tongue is also essential to removing bacteria and freshening your breath.

3. Dental Floss is Your Best Friend

While they are vital to ridding the teeth of excess plaque and food particles, toothbrushes are still limited when it comes to those tight spaces between your teeth. Floss can reach in between those tightly spaced teeth and remove even more bacteria and plaque. Flossing even strengthens your gums and protects them from gingivitis. To floss your teeth wrap at least sixteen inches of floss around your two middle fingers and grip the middle of the strand with your forefinger and thumb. Gently press the floss between every two teeth and get below the gumline. Then pull the strand out and slightly forward to retrieve the gunk you obtained from between the teeth.

4. Not All Tooth Products Are Created Equal

When it comes to your mouthwash and toothpaste don’t judge the product based on it’s pretty packaging. Instead pay particular attention to the ingredients and make sure that they are not going to be detrimental to your oral health. Some ingredients like alcohol and sodium lauryl sulfate can cause sensitivity or even irritate your gums and teeth. If you are uncertain if a particular brand of mouthwash or toothpaste is safe for your mouth then check with your dentist and see what they recommend. More often than not, the natural oral care products are the safest way to go.

5. Regular (Not Just Sometimes) Dental Cleanings

Toothbrushes and floss together make a powerful, plaque-fighting team. However, tartar build-up can still sneak into the mouth of the most diligent of toothbrushers. Tartar is basically a hardened, porous substance that results from plaque. It absorbs food stains more easily and makes your enamel age prematurely. That is why it is so important to go see your dentist on a regular basis. Dentists have special equipment that is specific for scraping off tartar and deep cleaning each tooth and the gumlines. Thus rescuing your teeth and keeping your smile looking young and vibrant.
Your dentist is your personal guide to a healthy smile. While they can answer all of your dental questions, that doesn’t mean they should do everything for you. You can’t expect your dentist to come over to your house and brush your teeth for you every day. Use the information above to help you take care of your teeth on your own. This will not only impress your dentist at your next visit, but it will also help you feel confident with your smile.