(Seattle dentists) Good Habits of Oral Health for a Better Smile

December 31st, 2009 admin Posted in hygiene |

By Dave Southern

Taking care of your oral health is one way of achieving a great smile. Practice good oral habits.

Brushing your teeth regularly and correctly is very essential in taking good care of your teeth. It reduces the amount of germs building up in your mouth. After all, your mouth is residence to hundreds of bacteria that can be only removed with regular brushing after every meal.

Toothbrush can be home to various microorganisms after sometime. It is equally important to change your toothbrush periodically.

The American Dental Association (ADA) and the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs give several tips on brushing.

First and foremost, dont share your toothbrush with anybody else even to your spouse. It is similar to passing colds or flu to someone. Sharing toothbrushes may result in accidental exchange of bodily fluids thus can cause infection.

Rinse your toothbrush very well with water after each use to take out any residual toothpaste and other remains.

Keep your toothbrush in a vertical stance and let it to air dry. When storing multiple brushes, leave gaps between brushes to prevent germs from being spread from one toothbrush to another.

Do not keep a toothbrush in an airtight container nor cover toothbrushes because moist is a good environment for germs to grow.

Replace toothbrush every three months. Inspect your brush regularly for signs of tattered bristles. Replace more often for kids.

Caring for your toothbrush is just part of keeping a good oral habit. Brushing the right way is also very important.

Brush your teeth every after meals using toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride protects gums and teeth.

Choose a toothbrush with a soft bristle. This is gentler to gums. Never do harsh scrubbing because it can irritate your gums.

Brush your teeth by holding your toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and use short back-and-forth motions. Brush the inside and the chewing surfaces of your teeth.

It takes two minutes to brush effectively so dont rush. Brush your tongue also. Many germs are accumulated here.

Consider using an electric toothbrush, particularly if you have arthritis or other problems that make brushing difficult.

Brushing alone cannot completely clean your teeth and gums. There are germs building up in between your teeth that brushing cannot reach. Flossing does the job. These are string-like materials inserted between teeth to remove germs building up here. Brushing and flossing always go together. Gargling with commercial mouthwashes also lessen plaques. Also visit the dentist twice a year for checkup and cleaning.

Maintain these good habits and youll always be ready to flash that perfect smile.

For more information on Toothbrush Replacement and Cleaning Electric Toothbrush please visit our website.

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