Originally posted on https://apollonia-dental.com/tips-for-creating-healthy-dental-hygiene-habits

 

Over 30% of millennials only brush their teeth once a day. When it comes to proper oral health, that’s not enough.

If you’re one of these people, your new focus should be creating healthy dental habits. But forming new habits can be hard, so how are you supposed to pull this off?

We’ve put together this quick guide to help you get started.

So keep reading below.

Brush Before You Get into Bed

You should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session. And while most people have the morning brush covered, many others skip brushing their teeth a second time before bed.

After all, we don’t have to be presentable when we’re asleep.

But every time you eat something during the day, plaque and germs build up on your teeth. It’s important to brush all of this away before heading to bed in the evening.

Brush Your Teeth Properly

Doing a bad job brushing your teeth is hardly better than not brushing your teeth at all. Make sure you use gentle, circular motions to brush each tooth.

You should also pay closer attention to your toothbrush and the toothpaste you’re using.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste

No matter what brand or flavor toothpaste you buy, you should always use toothpaste with fluoride.

Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen the enamel of your teeth. Fluoride toothpaste is the best type of toothpaste for your teeth.

Keep Your Toothbrush Clean

You should keep your toothbrush clean between brushings. After you finish brushing your teeth, rinse the toothbrush off with water. Then leave it in an upright position to air dry.

Remember to replace your toothbrush every three to four months.

Brush Your Tongue

Plaque doesn’t just build up on your teeth. It can build up on your tongue too.

Spend a few moments brushing your tongue every time you brush your teeth.

Floss Every Day

Flossing should be just as important as brushing. Make sure you floss at least once a day.

This will remove any small pieces of food that have worked their way between your teeth that your brush can’t reach. Run the floss gently between each tooth.

Use Flossing Tools

Flossing can be difficult, especially for kids. But that doesn’t mean you should skip flossing altogether.

Instead, buy some flossing tools to make the process easier. For example, most drugstores sell pre-threaded flossers.

Don’t Forget Mouthwash

You might want to make mouthwash a part of your normal dental hygiene routine as well. Mouthwash can reach even the smallest spaces in your mouth that are otherwise hard to clean. It also re-mineralizes the teeth and lowers the amount of acid in your mouth.

Again, make sure the mouthwash you choose contains fluoride. This will benefit your teeth more than other types of mouthwash.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water is an important part of your overall health, but it also helps take care of your teeth.

Do your best to drink a cup after every meal. This’ll wash away some of the leftover food and beverages left on your teeth before you brush.

Creating Healthy Dental Habits

The most important part of creating healthy dental habits is sticking to it. Make sure you brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, even if you don’t want to. Forcing yourself to do these tasks will help you create a habit that stays with you for the long run.

Want to kick-start your new habits with professional teeth cleaning?

Take a look at some of our services to learn more.