“You don’t have to brush your teeth — just the ones you want to keep.”
Anonymous
From an early age, we are taught the importance of brushing our teeth twice a day. But are you doing everything you should be doing for the best dental health? Even longtime routines can use some refreshing.
Below are the top habits we recommend incorporating into your daily routine to prevent cavities:
1. Learn to brush your teeth properly:
You brush your teeth every day (we hope!), but are you doing it correctly? Here’s how The American Dental Association recommends brushing:
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- Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gums. Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes, brushing the outer inner and chewing surfaces of the teeth.
- Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, using a gentle up-and-down stroke.
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Don’t forget to replace your toothbrush at least every 3-4 months.
2. Drink more water
Drinking water – especially water with fluoride – is one of the easiest and most beneficial things you can do to help prevent cavities. Unlike sugary drinks, water cleans your mouth and washes out food, sugars and bacteria, and dilutes acids produced by bacteria.
3. Add flossing to daily routine
Brushing alone cannot sufficiently clean your teeth. Flossing helps remove the food and bacteria in between your teeth.
4. Rinse daily with mouthwash
Ideally, use a mouthwash that contains fluoride. You can get increased protection if it also includes plaque-fighting ingredients to ward off cavity-causing bacteria.
5. Visit your dentist regularly
Bi-annual visits to the dentist are imperative to good oral hygiene. With regular cleanings, you can ensure you’re doing everything you can to keep your teeth in tip-top shape.
Need to schedule your next visit? Call us at 703-304-3881 or book an appointment online!