When it comes to dental hygiene, there are certain tasks that you hear about all the time, like brushing and flossing. But did you know there are some other things you can do to improve your dental hygiene in addition to your standard brushing and flossing routine?
- Mouth Wash – Using a mouthwash in addition to flossing and brushing can be a great way to fight cavities, gum disease, and plaque buildup. It’s also a great way to gain fresher breath in between brushings!
- Tongue Cleaning – Your tongue can be just as susceptible to bacteria as your gums and teeth, and can often be the source of somewhat unsavory breath. Whether you brush your tongue as part of your tooth brushing routine or you buy a tongue scraper to get rid of the top layer of bacteria, you may find that this dental hygiene tip offers several benefits.
- Changing Your Toothbrush – Have you had the same toothbrush for…oh, maybe a few months, or longer and you can’t really remember what your last toothbrush looked like? Changing your toothbrush is a great step towards maintaining great dental hygiene. It’s recommended that you change your toothbrush every two to three months, or after you’ve had a transferable illness.
- Stop Bedtime Snacking – If you brush your teeth right before bed and then have a little midnight snack, you may be undoing the hard work that your brushing was meant to accomplish. The food particles that sit overnight on your teeth can lead to bacteria production and plaque buildup that may affect your teeth over time. If you get up to have a snack, make sure to brush your teeth again!
At Northside Family Dental, we’ll be happy to discuss the dental hygiene tips that will keep your oral health in top shape. Contact us today to schedule a routine dental appointment!