Three Key Things for Good Oral Health
Knowing the best plan for optimal dental health isn’t always the easiest thing to achieve. That is particularly true in today’s age where there are a lot of dental hygiene products available all claiming to be the next magical component in your routine. From teeth whitening to straightening of your teeth to special UV lighting, it’s no wonder many people are unsure of what to do. Along with getting a dental cleaning twice every year, we highly recommend for all our patients to speak with their dentist about developing a long-term dental care plan. That includes helping you to determine which products are best for your individual needs.
Brushing and Flossing
The core of good dental hygiene is a good brushing and flossing routine. Brushing and flossing twice every day has often been the recommended go-to interval for your oral hygiene. But there is a lot more to it than simply brushing your teeth and doing a quick floss. First, how you brush and what you brush with matters more than you might think. Soft bristles are typically always recommended because harder bristles can actually damage and irritate your gums. And, contrary to what many think, you don’t have to press very hard against your teeth when brushing.
There are also a lot of options for toothpaste out there, and not all of them really live up to the flashy promises they give. For example, teeth whitening toothpaste can’t actually make yellowed teeth turn white again. Another product that grew in popularity is activated charcoal which made its way into the dental hygiene market. However, activated charcoal in toothpaste doesn’t really add any extra benefits. In fact, it’s been shown to do more harm than good. Activated charcoal is abrasive and overuse of a toothpaste with it can cause damage to the enamel over time.
Mouthwash
Next on the list of key factors for your oral hygiene is mouthwash. Using mouthwash has been proven to help reduce bacteria that encourages the build up of plaque. It is not, however, a replacement for brushing your teeth. One of the biggest benefits of mouthwash is using it during the day when you can’t get around to brushing your teeth. Always remember that tending to your dental hygiene doesn’t have to just be in the morning. Mouthwash is a great way for a quick cleanse during the day after a meal or a snack.
Routine Dental Cleanings
Finally, making sure you go in for your routine dental cleanings is the perfect way to round out your oral care. Going in for a dental cleaning isn’t just about a deeper, more thorough cleaning for your teeth. Going into the dentist allows for a closer inspection of your dental health’s current state, which is a great way to ensure that your smile is in the best of shape. Dental examinations can spot arising issues before they become huge problems. One such issue is making sure that gum disease isn’t an issue, which is one of the most common infections that people deal with throughout their lives.
Complete Your Oral Hygiene With Professional Dental Cleanings
Ready to complete your ultimate plan for your dental hygiene? Dr. Sisombath, DDS, believes in a comprehensive approach to all of her patient’s dental healthcare. Focusing on one aspect while neglecting the others harms the overall hygiene. Instead, we made sure that at Prosper & Smile Dental Care, your oral hygiene is at its peak both in the dentist’s office and at home while using the best products. Give our office a call today to schedule your appointment!