Good oral hygiene is the foundation for a healthy, attractive smile. Brushing and flossing not only improves the appearance of your smile but helps you reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist in Marysville, OH, Dr. Brijesh Patel, helps you protect your oral health and care for your smile with a variety of treatments and services.
How you can maintain good oral hygiene
You're never too young or too old to improve your oral hygiene. Keeping your smile healthy can be as simple as following a few of these tips:
- Brush Twice a Day: Plaque may cause tooth decay if you don't remove it twice a day. Use a brush with soft bristles and place the bristles at a 45-degree angle against your teeth. Use short strokes and gentle pressure to sweep away plaque.
- Increase Brushing Time: Most people don't brush nearly long enough. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), brushing for two minutes is the best way to ensure that you fully remove plaque from your teeth.
- Take Advantage of the Benefits from Fluoride: Sugars in foods mix with bacteria in plaque to form acids. These acids attack and weaken your tooth enamel, causing cavities. Fluoride in toothpaste and mouthwash strengthens tooth enamel, reducing your cavity risk. When you shop for toothpaste in Marysville area stores, look for products that feature the ADA seal. These products meet ADA recommendations and include fluoride.
- Floss That Plaque Away: Your teeth aren't completely clean after your brush them. Plaque lurks in the spaces between teeth, where it can cause cavities. Flossing your teeth at least once a day keeps every surface of your teeth clean and plaque-free.
- Make Brushing Fun for Kids: Your kids may be more eager to brush if oral hygiene doesn't seem like a chore. Buy your kids toothbrushes that light up, play music or feature cartoon characters. Or, play their favorites tunes while they brush.
- Give Your Children a Hand: Children usually need help brushing and flossing until they're at least 7, although some kids may need assistance a little longer. Make sure your children understand that it's important to brush every surface of their teeth to keep cavities away.
While the office is currently closed due to a mandate from the Ohio Dental Board and the Governor's office, it's important that you brush and floss regularly to maintain your oral health. If you have any questions you can contact us at (937) 642-2400.