5 Routine Changes To Implement Into Your Oral Health Routine In The New Year

Heading into the New Year, we all tend to make resolutions as we get a fresh start on the year ahead. One of your resolutions this year could be to improve your oral health.

Your oral health is directly associated with your overall health, and therefore, plays an important role in maintaining your overall wellness. Following an oral health routine daily, will ensure that you keep your mouth as healthy as possible in between dental visits.

Some struggle to keep up a strong steady oral health routine or have neglected to put one into place entirely. If you're looking for an easy place to start, or some tips on what to add into your routine, we’re here to help with five easy things you can implement into your daily oral health routine today.

Brushing With A Purpose

When brushing, be sure to hold the brush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums, so that the bristles can reach underneath your gum line and clean your entire tooth. Brush in circular motions, without applying an excessive amount of pressure - doing so can harm the enamel of your teeth.

Most importantly be sure to brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste to give your teeth the best protection you can. Make sure when brushing, you are spending at least two minutes cleaning your entire mouth. Your teeth, gums and tongue should all be cleaned during your brushing process.

Don’t Neglect Flossing

Brushing with the technique above is great, but there are still areas that your toothbrush sometimes misses or cannot reach. That’s what makes flossing so important.

When flossing, get an adequate amount of floss and wrap it around your index and/or middle fingers, leaving a space to fit between your teeth. Start at your back molars and work your way around your teeth, placing the floss that's between your fingers in between your teeth and gently move it back and forth. Move the floss along your fingers as you floss to ensure that you are using a clean area of floss between each pair of teeth.

Ideally, floss before your brush, as brushing can then wash away excess debris.

Use An Antibacterial Mouthwash

To really make sure all corners of your mouth are covered, use an antibacterial mouthwash as directed once daily. This will really ensure that your mouth is clean as mouthwash can access all the crevices within your mouth.

Monitor Your Sugar Intake

We’re all guilty of indulging from time to time, but try and be diligent about minimizing sweets within your diet. Sugar is the biggest culprit that causes bacteria that leads to tooth decay.

When you eat sweets, be aware that sugar can be stuck on your teeth until the next time you brush. It is a good idea to brush your teeth promptly after a sugary treat.

Drink More Tap Water

Tap water is a source of fluoride, the mineral that helps to keep your teeth strong and protects your enamel. By drinking more tap water, you will actually be helping to strengthen your teeth.

Start Improving Your Oral Health Today

If you would like more oral health tips or would like to book your next appointment, contact Woolwich Dental today.