Dental hygiene best practices begin when we are infants before we develop teeth and continue throughout our lives. In order to help ensure that your body and mouth are their healthiest, it is essential to make proper dental care a daily routine. Dental hygiene practices include brushing, flossing, and having regular dental check-ups performed by your dentist.
Oral diseases, such as gum disease, canker sores, and gingivitis can develop from insufficient care of your mouth, and improper care of your teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice a day; once in the morning and once at night, with a soft bristle toothbrush. The ADA advises the use of toothpaste that contains fluoride, brushing your tongue, and also that you replace your toothbrush every three or four months.
Brushing your teeth every morning and evening in a circular motion will help to keep your breath smelling good and keep bacteria and build-up off your teeth. Flossing between your teeth is as important as brushing and should be part of your dental care routine. Use a dental floss between your teeth after meals to help rid your gums and teeth of food debris and bacteria, which can lead to tooth. Flossing helps to do the job that your ordinary toothbrush cannot, as it reaches the small area between teeth where food often becomes lodged.
