Keeping Up a Proper Oral Hygiene Routine

Good oral hygiene is the simplest way to keep your smile healthy. Independence, MO, dentist Dr. Richard Mark shares a few tips that will oral hygienehelp you improve your oral hygiene routine.

Devote two minutes to brushing

Brushing less than two minutes may mean that you don't remove enough plaque from your teeth. The longer the sticky substance remains on your teeth, the higher the risk of tooth decay. When you spend at least two minutes on brushing and brush twice a day, you'll significantly decrease your cavity risk.

Use the best tools

Worn out toothbrushes do more harm than good. Throw out brushes when the bristles become splayed, stray bristles poke your gums when you brush, or it's been more than three months since you replaced your brush. When you shop for a new brush, choose one with soft bristles. Medium bristles can erode and weaken tooth enamel.

Have you given up on flossing because you can't fit the floss between your teeth? Luckily, there's more than one kind of floss. Everyone else in your family may like flossing tape, but string gloss might be a better choice if the spaces between your teeth are tight. Interdental brushes, flossing picks and water irrigators offer effective options if you don't like traditional floss. Flossing gets rid of plaque between your teeth, decreasing both your cavity and gum disease risk.

Following brushing with a swig of mouthwash

Mouthwash offers a little extra protection against plaque. Look for products that contain fluoride and provide anti-bacterial protection. After you use the mouthwash, spit it out, but don't reach for a glass of water. Rinsing immediately after using mouthwash rinses away the protection it provides.

Make checkups a priority

Visiting your dentist at our Independence, MO office every six months is an important part of maintaining your oral health. In addition to a exam and oral cancer screening, you'll receive a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. If you do happen to have a cavity, prompt treatment will limit the damage to your tooth.

A consistent oral hygiene routine and regular dental exams offer excellent protection for your smile. Call Independence, MO, dentist Dr. Mark at (816) 461-3660 to schedule an appointment.

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