Our smile is important, and keeping our teeth and gums healthy is key to keeping us smiling. Good oral health actually involves more than merely brushing our teeth. In order to keep our teeth and mouth healthy over a lifetime of use, we need to take certain steps to ensure that we are keeping disease and decay at bay.

Talk With Your Dentist

One of the first things to consider is that you are the first point of action for your health. Talking to your dentist and hygienist about any special conditions or concerns you may have in your mouth is the best way to get started on a good oral health care plan. It is important to share any health conditions you may have with your dental team in order to receive the best care possible.

For example, heart diseases, diabetes, pregnancy, and cancer treatments can all have an effect on your oral health and may necessitate a change in your dental plan of care. Keeping your dentist up to date on any changes you may have experienced in your general health or any medication in which you may be taking will help determine your course of treatments.

Establish A Healthy Routine

Once you have discussed your oral health care with your dental team, they can provide you with an oral health care plan that will give you a routine to follow, ensuring the health of your teeth. This daily routine may include special conditions for any health concerns you may have, including your pre-existing conditions if any. Make sure you understand all of the special instructions so that you are able to work them into your routine easily.

Brush, Floss, & Rinse With Mouthwash

A basic oral health routine for a person who has no serious health conditions to consider, typically includes brushing, flossing, and the use of mouthwash. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and before going to bed, is the minimum amount suggested. It is even better to brush your teeth after meals and snacks which helps remove plaque build-up that can combine with sugars to form the acids that cause tooth decay.

Follow the same routine with flossing, as it works in between the teeth and along the gums to remove plaque and tartar build-up. Tartar building up between the teeth and along the gum line can lead to the deterioration of the gums, and then on to more serious gum diseases. Gum disease can cause you to lose teeth and eventually bone, but it can be kept at bay through proper brushing and flossing.

Ending your brushing and flossing with a rinse of antibacterial mouthwash will also reduce the growth of bacteria in your mouth. Using mouthwash will also heal any gum infections and other minor irritations in the mouth, which keeps your smile sparkling and healthy.

Take Care Of Your Smile

Good oral hygiene is important to your overall health and wellbeing. Keeping up with daily oral routines is the best defense for fighting off tooth decay and gum disease. Ideal Dental Care can help you develop a personalized dental plan that puts you on a healthy path to your best smile. Maintaining regular dental appointments is crucial to maintaining your mouth’s health.