Good oral habits help support your teeth and gums, healthy digestion, and a strong immune system. The little things we do each day all make a big difference when it comes to keeping your breath fresh, your teeth strong and white, and preventing future health problems. Here are some tips for everyday oral health from your local orthodontic team.
#1 – Learn to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Even if you are brushing your teeth twice a day, you may not be cleaning them as well as you think, creating opportunities for cavities and other issues. Here’s what to do:
- Use a soft or medium-bristle brush – When brushing your teeth, make a small, circular motion and apply gentle pressure. Brushing too hard can damage your tooth enamel and delicate gum tissue, and you’ll go through toothbrushes much more quickly too!
- Take your time – Brushing your teeth should take you 2 minutes – no less. One good idea is to put on a song you like and brush your way through from start to end. You can also use a timer on your mobile.
- Brush your tongue – After brushing your teeth, clean your tongue. This removes plaque (which looks like a white film on the tongue) as well as cleaning away bacteria that can lead to decay and halitosis.
If you wear braces or aligners, chat to your orthodontist about how to brush your teeth and care for your orthodontics properly to avoid increasing your risks of tooth decay. There are plenty of great tips our team can give you to keep your mouth, fresh, clean, and healthy!
Did you know that every toothbrush you have ever used still exists? Because they are made of plastic, toothbrushes are a significant environmental problem. If you want to go green with your oral health, be sure to ask your orthodontist about where to find good quality sustainable toothbrushes.
#2 – Floss!
While most of us are good at brushing our teeth, we tend to get a little sloppy when it comes to flossing – and it doesn’t help when we hurt our gums either. Here’s how to get it right if you have braces:
- Use dental tape or wax-covered floss specifically for braces – This will be easier to use and gentle on your gums.
- The thread between the wire and the tooth – Use around 20cm of floss, wrapping it around the index finger of each hand. Thread under the wire and gently between the teeth. Move it upwards slowly, running it in a C-shape up to the gum, over the gum, and down the other edge of the tooth.
- Remove the thread gently – Slowly pull the thread out from under the wire, making sure not to catch it on a bracket or pull on the wire. Repeat with the rest of your teeth.
#3 – Use Fluoride Products
Fluoride strengthens the protective layer of your teeth (the enamel), helping protect the living tissue of the tooth from decay. Here’s how you can increase your fluoride levels to make sure your teeth stay strong – which is especially important if you’re wearing braces or aligners.
- Drink lots of water – Water helps to flush out food particles and bacteria from the mouth, keeps oral tissues healthy and functioning well, and is important for every aspect of your health. Tap water also contains fluoride, helping you get your daily dose.
- Use fluoride products – Using a good quality fluoride toothpaste is ideal for most people, but there are some other oral health products you can use to safely increase the amount of fluoride your teeth are exposed to. This includes fluoride mouthwash and supplements. Before taking anything, chat to your orthodontic team about how much fluoride you should be getting, and the best products to use.
Put Your Best Smile Forward with Your Orthodontist in Dandenong and Frankston
To get more advice or schedule an appointment for affordable orthodontic treatments, including metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign aligners for adults, children, and teens, speak your orthodontist in Dandenong and Frankston today.