Our dentists in Chesterfield know that every month is a chance to improve your oral hygiene habits, but especially in October. Every October, the American Dental Association celebrates National Dental Hygiene Month to help raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene and how it can impact your overall health as well. This year, there are four routines that play a core role in keeping a fresh, healthy smile: brushing, flossing, rinsing and chewing.
Brushing
Have you stopped to think about what the proper brushing technique is? First and foremost, you should be using a soft-bristled brush unless noted otherwise by our dentist in Chesterfield. You should hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and gently move the brush back and force. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the outer, inner and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to get rid of unwanted bacteria! Brush two times a day for two minutes each.
Flossing
Another facet of a healthy mouth is flossing your teeth. This helps get rid of plaque and bacteria that you can’t reach while you are brushing. Aim to floss your teeth once a day.
Rinsing & Chewing
Finally, rinsing and chewing are a crucial part of your oral health routine. You can use mouthwash to help get rid of bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. It is also a good idea to chew on sugarless gum for 20 minutes after you eat to help neutralize the acids that bacteria produce. Look for gum that has xylitol in it, as it is an alcohol-based sweetener that helps fight cavities. Plus, it will help freshen your breath after eating!
You should visit our dentist in Chesterfield at least twice a year to make sure your mouth is healthy! Contact us today to schedule an appointment.