7 DENTIST-APPROVED RECOMMENDATIONS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Written by : Dr Kriti Arora

TABLE OF CONTENTS :

INTRODUCTION TO ORAL HYGIENE

TOOTHBRUSHING

TOOTHPASTE

TONGUE CLEANING

FLOSSING

MOUTHWASH

RINSE AFTER MEALS

NUTRITION

TAKEAWAYS

FAQs

Oral health plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Maintaining proper oral hygiene not only enhances your smile but also contributes to your overall health. In this guide, you'll find dentist-approved recommendations to incorporate into your daily routine, promoting a healthier life. These recommendations encompass effective oral care techniques, essential products, and mindful habits.

Before we begin, answer these questions below - (YES/NO)

A. Do you brush twice daily?

B. Do you rinse post meals?

C. Do you scrape your tongue often?

D. Have you used dental floss?

E. Do you drink an ample amount of water?

F. Is your diet healthy and balanced?

G. Do you visit your dentist for a check-up every 6 months or annually?

If most of your answers are NO, you need to know how these factors can drastically change your oral health.

BRUSH properly

The cornerstone of your oral hygiene regimen is proper tooth brushing. It combats plaque buildup, prevents tartar formation, and reduces the risk of oral diseases. (1) However, achieving a pristine and healthy mouth involves considering factors that can be game-changers.

Types of toothbrushes

The market offers a plethora of toothbrush options, often leaving consumers bewildered. Manual toothbrushes come in three types: soft, medium, and hard. (2) Always check labels while purchasing.

While medium brushes offer better plaque removal, they can also cause tooth abrasion and gum issues. (3)

Opt for a soft toothbrush for optimal performance, avoiding hard brushes.

Electric toothbrushes, gaining popularity, provide slightly better plaque removal than manual ones, elevating oral hygiene. (4).

The correct tooth brushing technique

Many tend to scrub teeth, which can lead to problems. Improper brushing with excessive pressure may cause receding gums and enamel erosion, resulting in sensitivity. (5)

The modified bass method is a universally suitable brushing technique. (6)

Watch the video here

Frequency of tooth-brushing

Brushing frequently minimizes plaque accumulation, but excessive brushing can damage teeth. The norm is to brush twice daily, morning and night. (7)

Time spent on tooth-brushing

Most spend around 45 seconds brushing, yet experts recommend extending this to 2 minutes for more effective plaque removal. (8)

TOOTHPASTE

Toothpaste, in gel or paste form, enhances brushing efficacy. It cleans teeth through abrasives and freshens breath with added flavors. (9) While toothpaste now comes in varied colors for packaging, some promise teeth whitening or sensitivity prevention.

Whitening toothpaste lightens teeth and stains. Prolonged use may lead to teeth surface roughness. (10)

Desensitizing toothpaste gained popularity for mild cases of sensitivity but dental intervention remains ideal. There are various brands available that work by different mechanisms of action. (11)

Clean your TONGUE

Tongue coatings harbor bacteria, contributing to bad breath. Regular tongue cleaning with a scraper or toothbrush is crucial. A tongue scraper is more efficient due to reduced gag reflex. (12)

FLOSS like a BOSS

Flossing, coupled with brushing, removes plaque and trapped food, improving gum health and reducing bleeding and cavities. (13) Choose from:

A) Waxed Floss- nylon thread with wax coating.

B) Water Floss- ideal for braces, implants, and gum disease.(14)

C) Floss Picks - convenient disposable floss.

The MOUTHWASH

Mouthwash complements oral care, aiding those with limitations. It's not a toothbrush substitute but aids oral health. Dentists may prescribe it for infections, bad breath, or specific conditions. (15)

Avoid using mouthwash immediately after toothpaste. (16)

RINSE post meals

Rinsing with water after meals neutralizes mouth acidity, preventing dental caries. It also dislodges food stuck to teeth. (17)

NUTRITION AND ORAL HEALTH

Nutrition and oral health are intertwined. A healthy diet protects teeth, gums, and oral mucosa. Sugary foods elevate caries risk. Oral diseases can impact overall health; e.g., gum disease worsens diabetes or heart issues. (18)

Missing teeth affect nutrition; replacements aid eating and overall health.

Product Recommendations (click to buy)

TAKEAWAYS

Oral care isn't just about a pristine smile; it impacts overall well-being. Master the basics of oral care, including tools like toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, and tongue scrapers. Dentist guidance elevates oral and overall health. Biannual dentist visits prevent diseases.

If you seek more insights or wish to schedule a dental appointment, contact us. text us here.

Have more questions/doubts? If you want a personal consultation then you can book an appointment with one of the best dental clinics near you here.