March Is Oral Health Month: Tips for Dental Hygiene

Dental diseases are a common problem that affects people of all ages. Failing to treat oral health as a priority has led to larger health complications. Achieving optimum oral health is something that requires lifelong care. 

 

Regardless of how good your teeth look now, you need to take care of them to prevent problems. Maintaining your oral health involves watching your dental habits and using the right products. March is Oral Health Month, and you can learn tips for dental hygiene. 

 

Brushing Before Bed

Most people understand the importance of brushing their teeth two times a day. However, many do not realize the importance of brushing teeth before retiring to bed. Plaque and germs accumulate on the teeth and gums throughout the day. 

 

Failing to clean the teeth at the end of the day will mean that the germs will continue to harm throughout the night. It is vital to brush your teeth before heading to sleep. Also, you must use the right products. 

 

Proper Brushing Technique

It is not enough to just brush your teeth; you also need to do so correctly. Improper brushing is almost as bad as not brushing at all. Take the time to get to all the teeth and areas of the mouth. 

 

Use gentle circular motions to remove plaque effectively. Failing to remove the plaque will cause it to harden, resulting in calculus buildup and gum disease. It is vital to clean the tongue thoroughly using your toothbrush or tongue scraper. 

 

Using Fluoride Toothpaste

When choosing toothpaste, think beyond brand, flavor, and whitening ingredients. Regardless of your preferred toothpaste brand, you need to look for products that contain fluoride. 

 

While some think otherwise, fluoride is critical for oral health. It helps fight the germs that cause tooth decay. Fluoride also helps create a protective barrier for the teeth. 

 

Ensure Daily Flossing

Flossing is a necessary step in the daily oral hygiene routine. Many people brush their teeth but skip flossing. You need to realize that there are places that a toothbrush cannot get to, and only flossing will work. 

Flossing helps eliminate food debris and plaque that sticks between the teeth and below the gumline. Flossing also helps stimulate the gums, reducing plaque and helping lower inflammation. Flossing daily helps reap the positive benefits.

Consider Using Mouthwash

Most people overlook mouthwash mainly because they do not know its importance. Mouthwash helps in the maintenance of oral health in several ways. It helps clean areas of the mouth that are hard to reach using a toothbrush. 

Mouthwash reduces the acid amount in the mouth, and it also helps re-mineralize the teeth. Children and the elderly who may find it difficult to brush and floss properly can benefit greatly from using mouthwash.

Other things can help maintain good oral health. Drinking more water, limiting sugary foods, and eating a healthy diet are good habits to keep. It is vital to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleaning. 

For more dental hygiene tips, contact Castro Valley Dentistry at our office in Castro Valley, California. You can call (510) 674-0900 today to schedule an appointment.