13
Dec
Five steps to a good teeth cleaning routine at home and in the dental office
Taking care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health. It prevents the development of cavities and gum disease, keeping the smile bright and healthy. While regular dental cleanings are effective at removing plaque and tartar from the teeth, patients also need to maintain a good teeth cleaning routine at home. Below are five simple steps to follow for a thorough teeth cleaning routine both at home and in the dental office:
- Brush your teeth twice each day. A great routine starts with brushing your teeth for two minutes with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, preferably after breakfast and before bedtime. This is an effective way to remove plaque and buildup of bacteria on the surfaces of your teeth.
- Floss at least once daily. Flossing helps clean between teeth and under the gumline where a toothbrush cannot reach. It removes food particles stuck in these hard-to-reach areas, preventing the buildup of plaque and tartar.
- Use mouthwash as directed by your dentist. When used correctly as part of a regular dental hygiene routine, mouthwash helps kill bacteria, freshens breath, and reduces plaque formation. Consult our dental team to choose the right mouthwash for your specific needs.
- Brush your tongue. Bacteria also accumulates on the tongue, leading to bad breath and potential oral health issues. Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper to brush or scrape your tongue’s surface gently.
- Visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Regular dental visits are essential for our patients to maintain good oral health. During these appointments, dentists can detect potential problems early and provide necessary treatments to prevent them from becoming more significant issues. Our dental hygienists can provide a professional dental cleaning to pick up where you left off, ensuring a bright and healthy smile when you leave the office!
What else can I do to maintain a healthier smile?
A few more recommendations our team might make include:
- Limiting acidic and sugary foods from your diet.
- Increasing intake of foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D, such as dairy products and leafy greens.
- Using a fluoride mouthwash for added protection against cavities.
- Replacing your toothbrush at least every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become frayed or you have recently had an illness.
- Avoiding tobacco products, which increase the chance of developing oral cancer and other dental issues.
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports or activities to protect the teeth from injury.
Call our office today
(309) 663-4711
Or
Request An Appointment
Or
Who can I call to learn more about oral health care for myself and my family?
At Eastland Dental Center of Bloomington, Illinois, our quality professionals work directly with patients to help them choose the most appropriate dental treatments. A father-and-daughter team of doctors, Mike and Marisa Milligan, owns our family-friendly office and focuses on ensuring the entire household has healthy and confident smiles! If you are looking for a dental office to provide the care you need, call (309) 663-4711 to request an upcoming visit. We are conveniently located in Suite 101 at 1404 Eastland Drive.