3 Easy Ways To Keep Your Mouth In Tip-Top Shape

By: Dr. Amy See

Oral health is an important part of maintaining an overall healthy body. At my office, it’s important for us to make sure all of our patients, family, friends, and neighbors know the ins and outs of keeping their dental health in tip-top shape. Because if you keep your mouth healthy and clean, there are benefits that you can enjoy from having great oral hygiene.

Here are 3 easy ways you can keep your mouth in tip-top shape:

It’s All In the Tools

Toothbrush - Besides picking your favorite color or a toothbrush style that coordinates with your bathroom decor, it’s best to choose a toothbrush that has a medium-sized, soft-bristled head to ensure comfort and to avoid damage. Over time with use, you’ll notice that your toothbrush bristles will start to fray and some of it will begin to fall out. We recommend that you change-out your toothbrush for a new one every 3 to 4 months.

However, if you have had a period of illness, like the flu or strep throat, you must ALWAYS throw-out the toothbrush you have used and start a new one once you begin to feel better. Bacteria and germs can linger on the bristles of your toothbrush, so to prevent reinfection and becoming sick again, we recommend that you throw out your old one and use a brand new toothbrush once you’re over your illness.

Toothpaste - When it comes to toothpaste, there are many options available on the market. Instead of just using a generic brand that happened to be on sale, we recommend that you select a toothpaste that fits your specific needs.

Such as, if you suffer from tooth sensitivity, search for a formula that has desensitizing ingredients such as potassium nitrate, stannous fluoride, or strontium chloride. Looking for more protection? There are toothpaste options available such as containing extra fluoride or ones that contain ingredients that help protect your tooth enamel from acid erosion if you have weakened teeth. Whatever your needs, we recommend you find a toothpaste brand that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.

Floss - Again, there are different types of floss for different types of teeth. Those with tight teeth should use waxed floss for easy gliding while those with teeth that are a bit farther apart can use regular floss. Hate flossing all together? Try a floss pick for easier use.

The Techniques

Brushing and flossing seem incredibly easy, and they are, but that also means it’s easy to not pay attention while doing them. Make sure your teeth are getting the attention they deserve by brushing twice a day, everyday, in small, circular motions. Hit all sides of the teeth and brush for at least two minutes every time. When it comes to flossing, it’s crucial to do it everyday and get in between each tooth and up under the gum line.

The Twice-A-Year Visits

Regular visits to your dentist in Rolesville at least two times a year help make sure no problems are lurking in your mouth, and if they are, they’re caught and treated early. These visits can catch cavities developing, early signs of oral cancer, or gum disease. They’re also a great time to talk with your dentist about any cosmetic dentistry or restorative dentistry you may be interested in like tooth whitening, dental implants, or cosmetic bonding.

If your at-home oral health routine is on point -- you’re using the right toothbrush and toothpaste and you remember to floss -- but you’re missing your bi-annual visits with your dentist, your mouth isn’t in its best, healthiest state. Take your mouth to its ultimate stage of health by scheduling an appointment at my Rolesville dental office today.