Tips from a Dentist for the Best Oral Hygiene

2nd Apr 2019

Tips From A Dentist For The Best Oral Hygiene

Always seek professional advice when regarding health issues and dental hygiene tips. Here at Abbey House Dental, we want to help you keep the best dental hygiene habits at home, so we’ve compiled these top tips from a dentist in Stoke on Trent!

Correct tooth-brushing techniques

Believe it or not, there is a fine art to teeth cleaning that can be very easily mastered by all. One of the golden rules is not to brush too hard, because brushing your teeth harder doesn’t make them cleaner. This kind of aggressive friction can irritate your gums and make them bleed, especially if they’re already a little sensitive, so make sure you’re not pressing too hard. Start with your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use short back-and-forth strokes to scrub away at your teeth carefully. Rotate the brush around to the backs of your teeth as well, as this is often a neglected area and where plaque and tartar will readily build up.

Brushing habits

So, there are three main brushing habits to master: when to brush, how long, and when to replace your toothbrush. As for when to brush, you of course need to do so twice a day; once in the morning, and once before bed. At these times, you should be brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes to make sure you’re spending the right amount of time on your teeth. An easy way to do this is to play a song or podcast while you brush, and once you notice a minute has passed, then switch the other row of teeth. Also, you should replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months to keep effective cleaning, or sooner if you notice the bristles are beginning to fray and turn outwards.

Flossing and mouthwash

These are two very commonly neglected steps to dental hygiene routines that, when utilised, could transform your dental health at home. Flossing is just as important as brushing, as it removes food debris and plaque from between your teeth, a place where brushing simply can’t reach. Flossing once a day can help minimise your risks of developing gum disease, so your dentist would always recommend beginning flossing. Using an antiseptic mouthwash also aids these efforts, as the swilling and rinsing motion could ‘exfoliate’ the teeth surfaces and knock loose any residual debris from tooth crevices. It being antiseptic also helps to kill unwanted bacteria in the mouth, prolonging your gum and dental health.

Visit your dentist and dental hygienist

We wouldn’t be doing our job as a dentist if we didn’t remind you to visit your dentist and dental hygienist at least 2-3 times a year. Your dentist can help you identify problem areas in your teeth, such as cavities and decay, and your dental hygienist can work with you to improve your gum health and perform professional cleanings. Both are dental professionals who are there to help you maintain the best oral hygiene, so it’s important you utilise their services and don’t just wait for something to go wrong before visiting!

If you’ve been searching for a reliable and welcoming dentist in Stafford, look no further than Abbey House Dental. Book your first appointment today on 01785 818037.