Lots of people wonder if bad oral hygiene can cause health problems — and the answer is yes! At-home dental care is more than just for a beautiful smile; maintaining your oral health can directly impact your overall wellbeing by controlling bacteria that can cause infection and disease.
Luckily, oral healthcare isn’t rocket science. It’s pretty easy to take care of your teeth at home by adopting good oral hygiene habits. Here are six critical oral hygiene habits you should cultivate for a happy, healthy and beautiful smile.
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Brush and floss — the right way
It’s not enough just to brush and floss; you’ve got to do it the right way! This means brushing your teeth for at least two full minutes twice a day, using gentle circular motions. For best results, invest in quality fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget important spots like your back teeth, gums and tongue!
Use a long length of floss to remove hardened plaque and bacteria in between teeth. We know it’s not the most exciting task, but flossing once a day is necessary to help prevent gum disease, cavities and infection.
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Don’t neglect the mouthwash
"I already brushed; do I really need to use mouthwash?" The answer is yes! Mouthwash helps reduce acid in your mouth that can break down tooth enamel, flushes away bacteria and re-mineralises your teeth. Plus, it only takes a minute, so why skip it?
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Take a closer look at your diet
Your diet has a huge effect on your teeth, which means bad oral hygiene could begin with the food you choose to eat. Eating lots of sugary or starchy foods can increase the chance of tooth decay, while diets high in fibre, vitamins and minerals can make your teeth stronger. In fact, just the act of eating crunchy fruits and veggies can remove plaque from your teeth and keep your tooth enamel safe.
Enjoy sweet and starchy foods in moderation and fill the bulk of your diet with healthier alternatives. Your teeth will thank you!
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Visit your dentist regularly
When it comes to oral health, your dentist is your best friend, so be sure to visit at least twice a year! A lot of dental care takes place at home, but it’s still important to get professional cleanings and check-ups to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy and sound.
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Say goodbye to your old toothbrush
Brushing with an old or worn-down toothbrush? You’re doing your teeth a disservice, as your toothbrush can’t do its job properly if the bristles become frayed or lose their stiffness. Replace your toothbrush every three months or whenever it’s starting to look worse for the wear.
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Choose the best dental care products
Your oral care is only as good as the products you use, so be sure to choose wisely! White Glo offers a variety of quality toothpaste, toothbrushes, powders, whitening products and more so that you can enjoy a fresh, healthy and sparkling smile all the time.