Are You Keeping Good Oral Hygiene Habits?

By Joseph R. Hendrick, Jr., DDS, PA

March 21, 2018

Category: Oral Health

Tags: oral hygiene

Are your oral hygiene habits increasing your risk of cavities or protecting you from the effects of tooth decay? Shelby, NC, dentist Dr. Joseph Hendrick shares a few suggestions that will help you optimize your oral hygiene routine.

Extend your brushing sessions

Spending more time cleaning is always a good thing, whether you're washing your car or brushing your teeth. In fact, if you don't spend a full two minutes brushing your teeth, you may not clear away every speck of plaque. Leaving behind even a little bit of plaque can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease. Devoting a little more time to brushing is a simple way to improve your oral hygiene.

Evaluate your technique

Do you drag your toothbrush vertically against your teeth and gums, or push as hard as you can to ensure you get your teeth clean? If you do, you may be damaging your teeth and gums. Poor technique can cause both gum and enamel erosion, increasing your risk of receding gums, eroded enamel and sensitive teeth.

When you're at a Shelby drugstore, choose a soft bristle brush, as these brushes are gentler on your enamel than medium varieties. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle, and brush each tooth individually using short circular motions. Don't forget to clean the backs of your teeth too, as plaque can form on every surface of your teeth.

Make time for daily flossing

If flossing isn't part of your oral hygiene routine, it's time to add this important dental task to your day. Flossing gets rid of plaque between teeth and prevents it from turning into tartar, a hard deposit that plays a role in the development of gum disease. Flossing every day can also help keep your breath fresher. When you eat, small pieces of food inevitably become stuck between your teeth. Thanks to your daily flossing habit, you'll reduce your gum disease and tooth decay risk and enjoy fresher breath.

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help keep your teeth in good condition. Call Shelby, NC, dentist Dr. Joseph Hendrick at (704) 484-0077 to schedule your appointment.

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