1. Brush your teeth twice a day.

Brush your teeth thoroughly with a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth and fluoride toothpaste. Take your time—at least two minutes, two times per day! Angle the bristles toward the gumline and make gentle circular motions over all surfaces of each tooth.

2. Floss daily.

Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline. If plaque is not removed, it can harden below the gumline and lead to red, swollen gums. Use 18-24” of floss. Wrap the floss around each of your middle fingers and use your index finger and thumb to gently guide the floss between your teeth. Use a gentle, back-and-forth motion and curve the floss around each tooth. If you find flossing difficult, there are tools designed to help. Your dental care team can help you find a solution.

3. Clean your tongue.

Use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush to gently clean your tongue’s surface. This helps remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

4. Use mouthwash.

Consider using an antimicrobial mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. While mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing and flossing, it can help remove acid from the mouth, clean hard-to-brush areas, and remineralize the teeth.  

5. Replace your toothbrush regularly

Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed. A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning your teeth.

6. Maintain a balanced diet.

Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay. A balanced diet complete with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat will help maintain your overall health as well as your dental health. When you need a quick snack, consider crunchy fruits and vegetables, which will benefit your mouth.

7. Stay hydrated.

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your mouth moist and washes away food particles and bacteria. It also helps prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to tooth decay and bad breath.

8. Avoid tobacco products.

Tobacco use, including smoking and chewing tobacco, increases the risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health problems. Quitting tobacco is beneficial for your oral and overall health.

9. Visit your dentist regularly.

Regular dental check-ups are essential for preventive oral care. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings, examinations, and early detection of dental issues. If something in your mouth is bothering you, or you have a question, don’t wait—call our office.

10. Consider additional preventive measures.

Your dentist may recommend additional preventive measures such as dental sealants, fluoride treatments, or mouthguards for teeth grinding or sports activities. Follow their advice based on your specific needs.