Building Good Oral Hygiene Habits for a Lifetime

Maintaining your oral hygiene is crucial not just for your dental health but your wellbeing as a whole. Bad habits can lead to a lifetime of dental problems, which can lead to extra health care bills and an overall decreased quality of life. Instead, practicing good oral hygiene habits is a simple yet incredibly effective way to keep your mouth healthy. Here are some simple tasks you can implement to your daily routine to keep your smile bright.

Top Oral Hygiene Habits

● Brushing Teeth: Brushing your teeth is fundamental to your oral hygiene because it removes harmful particles, such as plaque, food and bacteria, from your teeth and gums. For maximum results, try to brush twice a day — once in the morning, and once at night. Aim for two minutes per session, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste.
● Flossing: Flossing is beneficial because it takes care of the hard-to-reach places in your mouth, such as in between teeth. Flossing should be done once a day, either in the morning or in the evening. Floss picks are an easy way to ease into incorporating flossing into your routine.
● Mouthwash: Mouthwash provides an additional layer of cleanliness and protection, in addition to keeping your breath minty fresh. Active ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) will also help kill active bacteria.
● Dieting: A healthy diet helps improve every aspect of your wellness, including oral hygiene. Limiting sugary and acidic foods and drinks will help prevent tooth decay as these ingredients can erode tooth enamel. Dairy products, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables and lean meats all contain crucial vitamins and minerals for strengthening your teeth and gums, so make each a part of your smile-healthy diet.
● Hydration: Regularly drinking water promotes saliva production, which can wash away harmful bacteria and neutralize harmful acids that can decay your teeth. Water also helps flush out any food particles that get stuck in your teeth throughout the day.
● Quitting Smoking and Limiting Alcohol: Smoking is one of the most harmful habits to oral hygiene because it severely increases your risk of gum disease and oral cancer. It can also hurt your teeth aesthetically by causing discoloration. Excessive alcohol consumption can dry your mouth out, leading to tooth erosion and bad breath. To fast-track your path to dental health, consider quitting smoking and drinking in moderation.
● Regular Dental Checkups: Ultimately, the best way to prevent oral disease is to catch the problem before it starts. Your dentistry team will be able to take a close look at your teeth and gums, identifying potential issues and preventing them from becoming long-term problems. Regular cleanings will also strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth for years to come.

Preserve Your Dental Health with Your Leesburg Dentist

If you’re looking for quality dental services in Leesburg, Florida, trust your local expert, Dr. Eddie Orobitg. Dr. Orobitg has treated the Leesburg community for more than 20 years with quality dental health checkups and restorative procedures. Schedule your appointment today by calling 352-787-5919.