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Best Ways to Take Care of Your Teeth and Gums

Brushing and flossing are necessary parts of a good dental routine. Other things you can do to help maintain your teeth and gums healthy, which will improve your overall health, are included below.


Brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes
The first step in keeping your teeth clean and healthy is to visit the dentist on a regular basis. Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time can help keep plaque at bay. This is referred to as the 2×2 rule. Children’s patients should be taught this concept early on and find methods to make it fun. You may play music or set a timer to remind you when two minutes have passed while they brush their teeth.

To make tooth cleaning easier, spend 30 seconds on each quadrant of your mouth (upper right side, upper left side, lower right side, lower left side). To ensure that the teeth are thoroughly cleaned while minimizing injury to the soft tissue around them, it’s vital to follow the proper methods. In moderate circular strokes, angle the brush head towards the gums. Make careful to clean all surfaces of your teeth, including the gum line, on both the fronts and backs. Brushing one’s teeth with an electric toothbrush is also advantageous for some people.

Floss daily
Flossing every night before brushing is suggested to eliminate whatever your toothbrush can’t get rid of. Although many patients admit to neglecting this step, it is an essential element of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Small particles of food and other deposits missed by your toothbrush might gradually grow into decay if you merely brush and assume you don’t need to floss. To avoid this, make flossing a part of your daily regimen for two minutes. It’s normal for sensitive gums to ache when you first start flossing. This is normal and will go away after a couple of days of flossing.

Make careful you floss up and down the tooth when flossing. Narrow gaps should not be overlooked; they are one of the most important places to floss since your toothbrush won’t reach them.

If your toothbrush shows signs of wear, replace it
Changing it every 3 to 6 months should keep it in good form and allow it to effectively clean your teeth – according to a dentist in Peoria. Damaged or frayed toothbrushes are unable to effectively clean the surface of your teeth, resulting in gum irritation. You may also help maintain the cleanliness of your toothbrush by replacing it regularly. Before keeping your toothbrush, make sure it’s clean and dry. Replace your toothbrush if you’ve been sick to avoid reintroducing bacteria into your mouth.

 Go to the dentist once every six months
If you visit your dentist regularly, your dentist will be able to prevent problems from arising, or at the very least detect them early. Regular visits also allow your teeth to have a complete professional cleaning twice a year, eliminating any plaque and tartar accumulation and aiding in the maintenance of your teeth and gums.

Adhere to a healthy diet
To encourage strong and healthy teeth, sweetened foods (such as pop, sports drinks, and sweets) should be avoided, and calcium-rich meals should be taken. As a bonus, your body will thank you! Foods like leafy greens, walnuts, yogurt, and cheese can help strengthen your teeth. Consult your dentist for meal recommendations that will help you keep your teeth healthy for many years.

Use products for dental hygiene
Brushing and flossing are necessary for proper dental hygiene, but you may also help keep your teeth healthy by including supplemental assistance in your routine. These products include mouthwash, oral irrigators, interdental cleaners, and tongue cleaners, to name a few. These tools can help you maintain good oral health, but they should be used in conjunction with (not in place of) regular brushing and flossing.

Keep hydration throughout the day
Not only is proper hydration good for your overall health, but it also helps to keep your saliva flowing freely. Saliva protects your teeth by moving food particles through your mouth, preventing the bulk of them from being stuck in your teeth, where germs can develop. It also helps to keep your mouth fresh and moist.

Don’t make the mistake of smoking
Smoking causes both cosmetic difficulties, such as tooth stains, as well as serious health problems, such as gum (periodontal) disease, which can lead to tooth loss, and oral cancer, to name a few. Quitting smoking is one of the finest things you can do for your oral and general health.

Think about dental sealants
Dental sealant protects your teeth against cavities and plaque by filling the depressions and grooves (fissures) in your molars and premolars. Sealants are beneficial to almost everyone, but children and teenagers are especially suitable candidates since they don’t brush as effectively as adults, resulting in a greater risk of cavities.

Examine the inside of your mouth at home regularly
While regular dental exams are an important preventative measure, issues might occur in the months between visits. Perform a quick inspection of the inside of your mouth as part of your routine to avoid major problems. Look around your teeth and gums for anything unusual or unusual. If you see anything strange, make sure to notify your dentist at your next appointment or phone his or her office. To keep your health in check, self-examinations should be done regularly.

Typical Misconceptions
Many individuals have misconceptions regarding dental hygiene. If you don’t get adequate dental treatment because of a misconception, it might lead to major problems. Some popular oral health myths are debunked by our Kitchener dentists.


Toothbrushing’s only purpose is to remove food and debris
Brushing your teeth is vital for keeping plaque at bay, and this is a primary reason for doing so.


Tooth loss is caused by cavities
Cavities are a factor in tooth loss, but they aren’t the only ones. Periodontal disease is caused by unhealthy gums. This decreases the gums’ grip on the teeth, making them more vulnerable to tooth loss.


Bad breath is caused by poor oral hygiene
Even the finest oral hygiene practice won’t be enough to keep all types of foul breath at bay. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a side effect of several drugs, as well as an indication of infection or other health issues. If foul breath continues despite brushing and flossing, consult your dentist or a health expert to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Bleeding of the gums is to be expected
Gum disease (periodontal disease) can cause bleeding gums. If your gums are bleeding frequently, talk to your dentist about what you should do.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is crucial for a healthy smile and body. Country Hills Dentistry’s dental staff is here to assist you in maintaining your oral health and to answer any concerns you may have along the road.