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Developing A Good Oral Care Routine

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

July 20, 2020

Category: Oral Health

Tags: Oral Care Routine

The best routines are ones that change with the times. If it's been a while since you've made any alternations to your oral hygiene routine, now is the perfect time to shake things up. Brushing, flossing and regular visits to your Shelby, NC, dentist, Dr. Joseph Hendrick, Jr., will help you keep your teeth and gums in good condition.

Have you heard about the two-minute rule?

If you're like most people, you've probably never paid any attention to how long you brush your teeth. Unfortunately, the quicker you brush, the more likely you are to leave plaque behind. Sticky plaque contains bacteria and is a factor in gum disease.

If you don't brush thoroughly, plaque soon becomes a hard deposit called tartar. Unlike colorless plaque, brown tartar can be noticeable when you smile or speak. Removing plaque and tartar protects your gums and your teeth.

In a study published in the Journal of Dental Hygiene in 2009, researchers noted that brushing for 120 seconds removed 26 percent more plaque than brushing for 45 seconds. Brushing in the morning and evening with fluoridated toothpaste is the best way to reduce plaque. Fluoride strengthens weak areas of tooth enamel, helping to prevent cavities from forming.

How often do you floss?

Daily flossing plays an important role in decreasing your risk of tooth decay and cavities. Your toothbrush bristles can't reach the tight spaces between teeth. If you rarely floss, cavities and tartar can develop in these spaces.

Choosing the best type of floss or flossing product makes the process easier. Generally, the string type of floss works best if your teeth are close together, while tape floss is more comfortable if your teeth are more widely spaced. Do you find it hard to reach the back of your mouth when you floss? Dental picks and interdental brushes may offer easier access. Water flossers are a good option if you don't like traditional flossing methods or have trouble with manual dexterity.

Other ways to improve your oral health

These recommendations can help you maintain good oral health:

Don't go to sleep without brushing to keep plaque under control.
Replace sugary snacks with fruits or vegetables.
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash that contains fluoride and kills bacteria.
Visit our Shelby dentist every six months for checkups.

Protect your smile with good oral hygiene and dental checkups. Call your dentist in Shelby, NC, Dr. Joseph Hendrick, Jr, at (704) 484-0077 to schedule your appointment.

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