Your teeth are more than just tools for chewing food. They also help you speak clearly by letting air flow through them. When they’re healthy, your teeth also support your face’s structure, which gives them their shape. Plus, when you smile confidently, you appear more friendly and approachable to others. On the other hand, if you don’t take good care of your teeth, you could develop cavities and gum disease that can have a negative impact on your body as a whole.

Here are some ways good oral hygiene can improve your life:

Brushing Your Teeth Regularly

Not only does daily brushing remove food particles and plaque from your teeth, but it also helps to remove bacteria and acids.

To brush your teeth properly, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and gently brush in small strokes. Be sure to clean the front and back of all of your teeth. Then, brush your tongue to remove any bacteria-causing buildup. Finally, rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash to further kill lingering bacteria.

Flossing

You should floss your teeth at least once per day. You should spend about two minutes to flossing thoroughly. When you are finished, your brush and floss should all look clean. Your toothbrush should be free of leftover toothpaste and clean of debris.

Many people forget to floss or only do it occasionally. However, this can lead to many oral health issues. Food particles can get caught in between teeth and lead to tooth decay. Also, the buildup of plaque on teeth and gums can cause cavities and gum disease if not removed. Taking care of your oral health at home is just as important as coming in to see us every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Practicing good oral hygiene habits can help you avoid costly and painful procedures in the long run.

Using Mouthwash

Use fluoride mouthwash. Many people use mouthwash before brushing to help decrease the amount of plaque that builds up on their teeth throughout the day. Fluoride mouthwashes help to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities by binding to the teeth and preventing acid attacks from the foods and drinks you consume.

Change Your Diet

Eat fewer sugary foods and beverages and processed carbohydrates. Try to limit snacking between meals as well. These foods stick to teeth longer than other foods, helping to increase the risk of tooth decay.

See Your Dentist Regularly

See your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning. Your dentist will be able to spot any potential problems early on and help you prevent them before they cause permanent damage to your teeth. They will also polish away any surface stains that have accumulated since your previous appointment.

To learn more, contact our dentist in Federal Way, WA, at Marine Hills Dentistry by calling (253) 839-2800 or visiting us at 1500 S Dash Point Rd, Federal Way, WA, 98003.