You may not have trouble remembering to brush and floss your teeth every day, but there’s a good chance you’re forgetting to put a few dental hygiene habits into practice. Whether it’s changing out your toothbrush every few months, cleaning your tongue, or one of the other countless tips dentists recommend, here are 4 you may want to incorporate to keep your smile in check.
Replace Your Toothbrush Every 3-4 Months
You should plan to replace your manual toothbrush or electronic brush head every 3-4 months if you want to reduce your risk of illness. In addition to frayed bristles that become less effective over time, these brushes can harbor germs and harmful bacteria from other areas of your bathroom (i.e., toilet flushing).
Visit Your Dentist Every Six Months
This practice can be difficult for many people, but it is essential for maintaining better oral health. Your dentist not only checks for infections, damage, disease, and decay, but also removes plaque and tartar, which are common causes of gum disease.
Regular dental checkups and cleanings help you maintain your smile and your overall health, as many issues found inside the mouth can affect other parts of the body.
Clean Your Tongue
Your teeth and gums need proper and thorough cleaning each day, but so does your tongue. Bad oral bacteria accumulate on this powerful muscle and can cause dry mouth, halitosis, and worsening oral health problems. This is why your dentist recommends using a soft-bristle toothbrush or a tongue scraper to clean this area of your mouth.
Rinse with an Antibacterial Mouthwash Each Day
Brushing and flossing effectively remove bacteria and food particles from the surfaces of your teeth and between them. Still, it’s common for remnants to remain and continue to wreak havoc on your smile. If you assume these two habits are all you need to achieve a healthy set of teeth and gums, this is unfortunately not the case.
In addition, you should use an antibacterial mouthwash to help flush away anything left behind that brushing and flossing missed. When swishing, the liquid bathes your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, effectively rinsing away additional buildup for a healthier, fully refreshed smile.
Dental hygiene consists of many essential steps, so if you want to make sure you’re taking care of your oral health the right way, don’t be afraid to ask your dentist for additional guidance.
About the Author
Dr. Meredith Todd is a dental professional who enjoys working closely with her patients, guiding them toward a healthier, happier smile. Offering preventive services and valuable tips to improve at-home oral hygiene habits and overall health, she and the team at Harbor Dental Center are always ready to help. If you want to learn how to improve your dental habits between appointments, contact us at (410) 228-5445 to schedule a consultation.