Every once in a while, it is a good idea to take a look at your oral hygiene routine, and make any tweaks or adjustments necessary; we all fall into bad habits sometimes! Today, our Tinley Park dentists are sharing some simple things that you can do to improve your day to day oral hygiene.
Use the right toothbrush: the ADA recommends that patients brush their smiles twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. You can ramp up your oral health routine by ensuring that you’re using the right tools to refresh your smile.
Talk to your dentist about what type of bristle appropriate for you. Most people will do well with a soft-bristled brush; in fact, firmer bristles may cause inadvertent enamel damage and thinning.
It’s also important that the head of your brush is small enough to reach your back molars. The back of your smile is an ideal environment for bacteria to accumulate and become entrenched.
Prioritize water during the day: remember that patients who suffer from chronic dry-mouth are likely to experience increased instances of cavity development as well as gum disease. You want to make sure that you’re drinking enough water throughout the day, in order to promote saliva production in your mouth. You can also help your smile by rinsing your mouth with water after every meal and snack.
Incorporate a mouth rinse into your routine: rinsing with water is a great start, but some patients will additionally benefit from incorporating a specially-formulated rinse into their oral hygiene routines. There are many types of mouth rinses on the market today: whether you want to strengthen enamel, fight bad breath, or combat dry mouth. If you don’t know what’s best for your smile, just ask your dental team for guidance.
For even more guidance, and personal recommendations, give our Orland Park dentists a call, today!