A rigorous and thorough at-home oral hygiene routine can make all the difference for the long-term health and appearance of your smile. Our Santa Monica dentists provide suggestions and recommendations to our patients regarding how they should care for their smiles day to day. Today we are providing you with a quick overview of the basics of a well-designed oral hygiene routine. Keep in mind that your dentist may give you different directions if you have specific dental needs.
Let’s get started!
Brushing
Most people should be brushing their teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once in the evening before bed. When brushing, move your toothbrush in small circular motions over your enamel and gum tissue. You can move the brush back and forth along the bite surfaces of your molars. Generally speaking, soft-bristled toothbrushes are sufficient for thoroughly cleaning your teeth; medium-bristled brushes may actually be too abrasive and lead to enamel deterioration. Also, try to brush your teeth for at least two minutes every time that you brush—gentle and sustained brushing is preferable to using more pressure.
Flossing
The American Dental Association recommends that people floss once a day, at night right before they brush. When you floss between your teeth, you help to dislodge any dental debris or food bits. Then you an easily brush these away before bed. As you floss your teeth, move the floss up and down the length of your tooth, and guide it gently into your gum tissue.
Mouth rinse
Your dentist may suggest that you use a mouth rinse in order to further clean and refresh your smile. Many mouth rinses include fluoride, in order to help remineralize enamel. It’s usually best to use these rinses as the final step in your brushing and flossing routine.
As always our Santa Monica dentists are here to give you any more information that you may need. We look forward to speaking with you!