Did you know that our teeth are the hardest substance in our body? Healthy teeth not only enable you to look and feel good, they make it possible to eat and speak properly. Good oral health is important to our overall well-being.

The goal of proper oral hygiene is to remove or prevent formation and buildup of plaque and tartar, to prevent dental caries and periodontal disease. Our mouth is home to bacterial communities and in the process, these bacteria can cause tooth decay.

Oral health begins with clean teeth.

Keeping your teeth clean can cavities and prevent gum disease while keeping your tooth surfaces clean.

Here are some brushing basics for proper oral hygiene:

Brush your teeth twice or thrice a day – When brushing your teeth, don’t rush. Take about two minutes to do a thorough job.

Use proper equipment – Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably.

Keep your equipment clean – Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing.

Know when to replace your toothbrush – Invest in a new toothbrush every three months.

Floss after brushing – You can’t reach the bacteria in the tight spaces between your teeth and under the gum line with a toothbrush – That’s why daily flossing is important.

Daily preventive care, including proper brushing and flossing, will help stop problems before they develop and is much less painful, expensive, and worrisome than treating conditions that have been allowed to progress.

Make sure you set an appointment with your dentist regularly. Remember, early detection and treatment of problems with your gums, teeth and mouth can help ensure a lifetime of good oral health and a smiling face throughout the day.

Reference:

https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/2049-2618-2-41

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20045536https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth