Oral hygiene refers to a cleaning regimen you complete for your smile that keeps your teeth and gums looking and feeling their best. You must brush your teeth twice per day and floss on a daily basis in order to remove harmful particles that could threaten your oral health.
While sticking to this routine consistently is important for a healthy smile, you must also make sure you use the right supplies to complete this regimen. Learn more about the crucial tools that make up your oral hygiene routine when you read on.
Select a Reliable Toothbrush
Your toothbrush features an easy-to-grip handle with firm bristles attached to the head. These bristles allow you to scrub away plaque and other residues that can stick to the surface of your teeth. You might not realize that the type of toothbrush you use can impact your oral health.
Make sure you choose a soft-bristled toothbrush rather than one with hard bristles. You might guess hard toothbrush bristles can give you a more thorough cleaning. But they will frequently prove too harsh for your teeth and gums. You can sustain major dental damage this way, so opt for a brush with soft bristles instead.
Choose High-Quality Toothpaste
Toothpaste refers to a gel-like product that you apply to your toothbrush. It contains abrasive ingredients that enhance the scrubbing ability of the brush. It ensures that you can get rid of stubborn stains and build-up on your teeth.
Look for the ADA seal on the toothpaste brand you purchase so that you know the product will work as advertised. You can also benefit from selecting a toothpaste that contains fluoride. This mineral will absorb into your tooth enamel to strengthen your teeth and better fight cavities.
Find the Right Floss for You
Do not skip flossing when it comes to oral hygiene. You can insert traditional string floss between two teeth to clear away harmful plaque that can develop there where your toothbrush cannot reach.
While string floss is highly effective, you can also consider alternative flossing tools. Floss picks feature string floss attached to a plastic handle for easy navigation through your mouth. And a water flosser can aim a stream of water between your teeth for a targeted oral hygiene solution.
You can swap out the tip of the water flosser to find the best way to clean your unique smile. For instance, you can try a tip that cleans deep in the gum pockets or can maneuver around braces or dental implants.
Consider Rinsing with Mouthwash
Mouthwash refers to a solution that you can swish in your mouth to rinse away bits of food and other particles that may otherwise harm your smile. It can prove extra useful after a meal, but it can also complement your teeth-brushing routine.
If you use a water flosser, you can add a bit of mouthwash into the compartment mixed with water to improve your oral hygiene regimen. Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride for optimal oral health benefits.
You may also want to try an antibacterial mouthwash to balance oral bacteria and fight gum disease. Discover more oral hygiene advice when you give your dentist a call today.