Good Oral Hygiene Habits

The importance of oral hygiene should not be underestimated. Hundreds of kinds of bacteria live in your mouth. These bacteria feed on leftover food particles and, if left unchecked, can cause a slew of issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or even tooth loss.

The best way to prevent these issues from developing is to practice good oral hygiene. Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the mouth clean and free from disease and infection. 

Brushing Your Teeth

It is easiest to brush your teeth around 30 minutes after the last meal of the day. If you clean your teeth too soon after eating, your enamel will be softened, making it easier for bacteria to penetrate your enamel and irritate your gums. If you clean them too late, you risk allowing acids to remain on your teeth for too long.

Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste is the most effective way to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Flossing

Flossing is an essential part of your oral care routine. Flossing once a day helps to remove plaque, a sticky substance that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.

Plaque is a biofilm that builds up on teeth. It is the cause of bad breath and can cause cavities and gum disease. It can also irritate the gums, causing them to become swollen and red.

Using Mouthwash

While mouthwash alone cannot cure halitosis, it can help remove plaque and bacteria that cause bad breath. Mouthwashes often contain antibacterial agents that can kill off bacteria before they reach the bloodstream and cause health problems. Antiseptic mouthwashes also work to combat plaque and gingivitis, as they can kill the bacteria that cause these problems.

Mouthwashes can also be used to freshen your breath if brushing and flossing don’t quite do the trick. Some mouthwashes are specially formulated to fight bad breath, so it may be worth looking into those options.

Regular Dental Exams

In addition to brushing and flossing, it’s important to visit your dentist in Oakland, CA, for regular dental exams. Our dentist in Oakland, CA, can find signs of disease that you may not notice yourself, such as tooth discoloration and gum disease.

Avoiding Smoking and Chewing Tobacco

Tobacco use is linked with many oral health issues, including oral cancer and gum disease. People who smoke or chew tobacco are more likely to develop gum disease.

Smokers are nearly twice as likely to develop gum disease as non-smokers. Smokers who quit can reverse some of the damage that smoking has done to their teeth and gums, but they must still practice good oral hygiene habits.

To learn more about best practices for oral health, call Bay Area Dental at (510) 350-8187 or visit our dental office at 3300 Webster Street, #907, Oakland, CA 94609. Book your appointment with our dentist in Oakland, CA, to achieve the smile you have always wished for.