Everyday Dental Routine
One of the first self-care activities we are taught as kids is how to brush. The importance of good oral care is stressed upon enough by our elders, our teachers, and our dentists. Why then, as adults, do we fail to take utmost care of our pearlies? But it is never too late to take control of your health. This article will help you figure out the right dental routine, one which will remove more food particles, plaque, and debris from your mouth. Just remember, each day counts.
A Step-By-Step Guide To Cleaning Your Mouth
Yes, start with flossing first. Surprised? Studies have shown that flossing before brushing is more efficient as flossing later may leave behind debris (that was removed from in-between your teeth) in your mouth until the next time you brush. The best time to floss is at night. And the correct method is to break about a foot-long floss so that you will have a clean section for each tooth gap. Roll the ends on your index finger and gently go up and down until you have reached the molars right at the back.
The next step is to brush. But remember, while you may floss only at night, brush at least twice a day. And take your time to do it. Experts recommend 3 minutes, which allows you to spend 30 seconds on each quarter of the mouth. Keep your brush at a 45-degree angle to your tooth’s surface and aim for your gums. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with angled or multi-layer bristles. Such toothbrushes are not only gentler on your teeth but also the bristles can bend easily and reach areas that would be difficult for hard bristles to reach. As for toothpaste, make sure to choose one with fluoride content. Tip: If you have the luxury of time, brush after an hour of breakfast in the morning, as this ensures a cleaner mouth for the rest of the day. On no account brush immediately after meals as the acid released by the food loosens the tooth enamel temporarily and brushing may cause more damage if done too soon.
- Tongue Scraping
This is a fundamental step that is skipped by many. Buy a simple metal tongue scraper. Do this step after brushing to remove harmful bacteria that may have settled down on the surface of the tongue and could result in gum inflammation and cavities.
Finally, we come to our favorite step in the routine, one in which you can experiment with different flavors. Take half a cupful of mouthwash and swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds. Don’t forget to gargle. There might be a tingling sensation but don’t give up. Day by day, the tingles will lessen, letting you know that the bacteria in your mouth are decreasing in number. You are now ready to start your day or go to bed feeling totally refreshed. To take your oral health a step further, schedule a dentist appointment twice a year for regular check-ups and thorough cleaning. This will be a cherry on the cake. (Just don’t eat that cake if you want healthy teeth in the long run).