A beautiful smile is one of the first things people notice about you. To keep your pearly whites shining bright, you need to follow good oral hygiene. Here are the best practices that help maintain good oral hygiene.

• Brushing and flossing your teeth properly

It is important to take steps at home to maintain the health and appearance of your smile. First, always brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothbrush that is right for your teeth. The American Dental Association recommends using a soft-bristled brush and brushing in a circular motion to reach every area of the mouth that a toothbrush can’t reach on its own. You should replace your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles begin to fray and become worn.

Next, you should floss your teeth on a daily basis. Flossing removes food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque can build up in these areas and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. When flossing, use about a foot of floss and wind it in a “C” shape around each tooth before you gently slide it between the teeth to dislodge plaque and food debris. Be sure to clean both the front and back of the teeth, as well as in between the teeth. 

Finally, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after you’re done brushing and flossing to remove any remaining debris. Your dentist may also recommend an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and keep your smile healthy. Keeping up with daily oral care is essential for the prevention of cavities, tooth decay, tooth loss, and more. These tips can also help lower your risk for more serious problems such as oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease.

• Eating a balanced and nutritious diet

The foods we eat play an important role in our oral health, from helping prevent cavities to strengthening tooth enamel. That’s why dentists encourage patients to eat a well-balanced diet. What you eat affects not only your teeth but your overall health too. Foods that are high in sugar or starch can increase the risk of tooth decay, so try to choose foods that are low in sugar and rich in vitamins and minerals, like carrots, celery, nuts, and cheese. It’s also important to avoid drinks high in acids and sugar, like soda and fruit juices. These foods are also bad for your gums! Acidic foods and beverages can break down your tooth enamel and increase the risk of gum disease. In addition, these sugary and acidic foods can cause bad breath.

• Avoiding tobacco products

Tobacco products are dangerous to your oral health and overall health as well. When you use tobacco, it can cause your gums to become infected and may even lead to tooth loss. Smokeless tobacco is even worse for oral health than smoking or chewing tobacco because the chemicals in these products have more time to work on your teeth and can cause staining that is difficult to remove with brushing alone.

• Regular visits to your dentist

Visiting the dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning can help prevent oral health issues and improve the appearance of your smile. These exams allow your dentist to detect underlying problems in their earliest stages when they are easiest to treat. Exams are also a good time to discuss any concerns you may have about your oral health and recommendations for treatments that can improve it. In addition to maintaining good oral hygiene at home, visiting the dentist regularly is an important part of helping keep your mouth healthy.

At Dynamic Dental Services, we offer the best dental care possible to each of our patients in a positive and relaxing environment. If you're ready to experience the best dental care, please contact us at (773) 538-6191 or visit us at 5401 S. WENTWORTH AVE. #200, Chicago, IL 60609.