Blog

Good oral hygiene is important for the overall health and well-being. It helps to prevent several oral and dental problems. Good oral hygiene helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. The following is a short list of things that you can do to maintain good oral hygiene.

• Brush and floss regularly

You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss once a day to clean away plaque between your teeth, under your gums, and along your gumline. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for brushing technique and frequency. Brushing too hard can damage the enamel on your teeth and wear down tooth structure over time. You should also replace your toothbrush regularly because it will wear out and lose its effectiveness.

Flossing removes food particles that can become stuck between your teeth and gums, causing decay and gum disease. Dental floss comes in different varieties, including waxed and unwaxed, flavored, and even tape. Find the option that works best for you to get the most out of it and keep your mouth healthier. Making improvements to your oral health is an investment in your future oral function and well-being.

• Schedule regular dental checkups

By coming in for regular exams and cleanings, you can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease and keep your mouth as healthy as possible. During these visits, we will also check your gums for any signs of periodontal disease so we can help you get back on track with a healthy mouth.

During your visit, we will complete an oral cancer screening and look for signs of decay or other issues. We will also clean your teeth, so you have a bright smile that lasts. We’ll go over oral hygiene tips with you so you can maintain these at home as well. These appointments are also a good time to ask any questions you may have about your oral health.

• Eat a balanced diet

Maintaining a healthy diet goes a long way towards good oral health. Eating fruits and vegetables help strengthen teeth and prevent decay and cavities. Avoid sugary snacks that leave residue on your teeth. If you still eat sugar-laden foods, make sure to rinse your mouth out with water afterward.

Your mouth is a home to millions of bacteria, and food particles can feed these bacteria and promote the production of acids that cause tooth decay. In addition to eating a balanced diet, make sure to avoid snacking between meals. By doing so, you help promote saliva production in the mouth, which helps cleanse the mouth and reduce bacteria buildup. Saliva also naturally repairs damaged tooth enamel. By limiting snacking between meals and eating a well-balanced diet, you can promote excellent oral hygiene.

• Quit tobacco use

We’ve talked about the importance of quitting smoking several times in the past, and this reminder is necessary again because tobacco use is still the number one preventable cause of death in the world. Aside from lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, it can also lead to oral diseases from gum disease to oral cancer. In fact, smokers are four times more likely to develop oral cancer than non-smokers. In addition, tobacco can stain your teeth yellow or brown and make it extremely difficult for dentists to restore their whiteness with professional whitening treatments. 

By maintaining a good oral hygiene routine at home and visiting us every six months, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduce your risk of issues such as gum disease or tooth loss.

If you’re due for an appointment, call our team today! We’re happy to help! Our dental office is located at 344 Morris Ave S, Renton, WA 98057. Make an appointment with us right away by calling (425) 226-6227 to learn more about our dental services.