Oral Hygiene Care Tips for a Healthy Smile

Think of your smile like a car — you don’t start taking care of it when warning lights come on. You practice preventive maintenance to ensure it operates at peak performance at all times. Your mouth isn’t any different. 

Instead of waiting for problems to crop up, practicing preventative dental care is crucial. This hygiene care involves at-home dental care combined with routine dental appointments. Gunnerson Dental in Payson, Utah, shares tips to keep your mouth well-polished for a healthier, happier you. 

Let’s dive in and find out!

Brush properly twice a day

You need to brush at least twice a day. Brushing protects your smile from bad breath, tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Brushing does an incredible job of removing plaque — a sticky film that coats teeth and is home to harmful bacteria. When plaque isn’t removed, it produces acids that attack the teeth and gums, causing decay and infection. 

Use fluoride toothpaste with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Move your brush gently in circular motions to remove plaque in all areas of your mouth. The process should take about two minutes.

Floss like a boss!

Did you know flossing reaches and cleans about 40% of your tooth’s surface? Flossing is essential in getting into tricky spots that your toothbrush can’t access. While there are different types of dental floss, what matters is getting the technique right. 

Watch your diet

Take plenty of water to avoid a dry mouth, which is susceptible to bad breath and gum infection. Eat plenty of veggies and fruits, and limit sugary and acidic foods. 

Visit a dentist every six months

Your at-home dental care is essential for healthy teeth and gums. Still, even the most diligent brushers and flossers need the help of a dentist. During your bi-annual dental appointments, your dentist detects oral issues early before they become complicated. Besides, we professionally clean your teeth to eliminate the plaque and tartar lurking in your mouth.

Looking for a dentist?

Our dental team at Gunnerson Dental is here to help you maintain optimal dental health. Please email us or dial (801) 658-0175 to book an appointment with Drs. Gunnerson and Bradford to keep your smile healthy.