Check out these five oral hygiene tips so mouth-health becomes a simple priority for your family.
1. Brush and floss properly
The proper brushing technique involves:
A soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
In a circular motion, scrub the front, back, and chewing surface of each tooth
Brush your tongue and roof
Rinse and spit
The entire brushing process should take at least two minutes and should be done two times per day.
Flossing should be done at least once a day, preferably in the evening. Simply take a string of floss or floss pick, run it down one side of a tooth and up the other. Be sure to reach all the way down to the gum line. When the floss gets dirty or frayed, switch it out!
2. Make it fun!
For children (and many adults) oral hygiene is boring. Some tips to make brushing fun:
Let your little one pick out their toothbrush, paste, and floss
Play a two-minute video for them to watch while brushing
Offer a reward for consistently brushing each week
Get a toothbrush that plays music
3. Get the proper nutrients
What we put in our mouths is almost as important as brushing and flossing. Sugary foods and carbohydrates often create environments where disease-causing bacteria thrive, however, other foods can significantly improve oral health.
Eat more of these nutrients to improve your oral (and overall!) health:
Calcium
Vitamin D
Potassium
Phosphorus
Vitamin K, C, and A
4. Visit the dentist regularly
Regular cleaning and exam visits are necessary for children and adults. Most dentists recommend attending these appointments every six months, and in some cases, even more often.
During these appointments, dentists check for signs of cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Regular dental visits are essential to the prevention of more serious oral health problems.
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