A bright, confident smile begins with a consistent oral care routine, such as following brushing and flossing tips from your Dallas dentist. These are a great start, but there are a few other ways to keep your oral hygiene routine in top standing. Here are some tips on how you can maintain a healthy Dallas smile every day.
Brush Correctly at Least Twice a Day
It’s important to remember that the toothbrushing technique matters, too. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and your favorite fluoride toothpaste to spend two full minutes brushing.
Replacing your toothbrush every three to four months is recommended, but feel free to replace it sooner if the bristles are fraying. Electric toothbrushes are also a great option, as they often have more consistent cleaning movements and can make it easier to reach all the areas of your mouth.
Don’t Skip the Floss
Flossing is one of the most overlooked steps in taking care of your teeth. Even the best toothbrush can’t get inside the tight spaces between your teeth, which become the perfect spot for plaque and food to build up. Flossing once a day helps prevent cavities between the teeth and reduces your risk of gum disease, especially when compared to brushing alone.
If traditional flossing is difficult due to finger or hand mobility, or if it just feels awkward, try a floss pick, interdental brush, or a water flosser. Remember to floss before you brush; this helps boost the fluoride concentration in your mouth and keeps your teeth more resistant to decay.
Use a Good Mouthwash
There are a few different kinds of mouthwash. Some are anticavity, others are antimicrobial, and others have fluoride. Mouthwashes like these are able to offer extra protection for your teeth and gums. Mouthwash helps reduce bacteria, freshen your breath, and strengthen your enamel.
It’s important to remember that a mouthwash can’t replace brushing or flossing. Think of mouthwash as a complement to brushing and flossing, not a substitute.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Even with the utmost care at home, professional cleanings and exams are still extremely important. Our skilled team and Dr. Buchanan can detect early signs of decay, gum disease, or other oral health issues before they turn into something more serious. We recommend that most of our patients schedule a check-up and routine cleaning every six months, but Dr. Buchanan may recommend more frequent visits based on your specific needs.
Make Your Daily Dental Routine in Dallas a Priority
Good home oral care in Dallas just requires consistency and attention to detail. Once you establish a regular routine, remembering each step of brushing, flossing, and swishing will become second nature.
Make sure you schedule a dental check-up with Dr. Buchanan today as part of your oral hygiene routine, and we’ll help keep your smile healthy, beautiful, and strong.