Do you take care of your teeth? For your overall health, good oral hygiene is essential. Oral hygiene is also known as dental hygiene. It involves a regular cleaning of your gums and teeth.
Healthy teeth, healthy gums and fresh breath are all possible with proper oral care. These tips will help you start your day off right with good oral hygiene.
Good oral hygiene: instructions
Poor oral hygiene can lead to poor health. It can also affect your overall health. Here are some tips for oral hygiene:
- Brush twice daily for at least two minutes
- Use floss, floss picks or water flossers to clean between your teeth each day. You should not miss any teeth.
- Use fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash
- For preventive care, visit your dentist twice a year
- Follow the instructions of your dentist and the dental hygienist regarding oral hygiene
Healthy gums and teeth can improve your appearance, make it easier to eat and speak comfortably, and save you money later on.
Discuss oral hygiene with your dental hygienist
Call your dentist if your gums become tender, swollen, bleeding, or painful. Your dentist or dental hygiene professional can provide recommendations regarding home care. This includes demonstrating how to brush and floss properly, using oral hygiene products and discussing possible treatment options.
Best Brushing Technique in 3 Steps
Image 1: Hold the toothbrush at 45 degrees to your gumline. Use a gentle circular motion to brush the front and back of the teeth.
Image 2: Use a few, quick, back-and forth strokes to gently brush the surface.
Image 3: Clean your breath by lightly brushing your tongue.
Best Flossing Technique in 3 Steps
Image 1: Make a 18-inch length of dental floss
Image 2: Slide the floss between the two teeth. Be careful not to pull the floss through your gums. Form a C-shaped shape by wrapping the floss around each tooth.
Image 3: Slide the floss gently up and down on one side of your tooth. Next, reverse the C-shaped motion to the opposite tooth.
Proper brushing and flossing can prevent gum disease or gingivitis from developing. Daily hygiene promotes good oral health and general well-being. It is an integral part of self-care.