Practicing proper oral hygiene is important to your body’s overall health, helping to keep your mouth clean, fresh, and free of potential conditions such as disease.
But while we all know that it’s good to brush your teeth, but what about some of the finer points of oral care? As any dental clinic in Vancouver will tell you, asking researching and asking about your oral care routine is important to helping maintain its health.
To help guide you through some basics of oral hygiene, here are some commonly asked questions about oral health.
What Toothbrush and Toothpaste is Best?
When it comes to toothbrushes, the type to buy is generally considered to be one with soft bristles. Bristles that are too firm can damage your gums and teeth, as can applying too much force when brushing, so it is generally recommended to use your soft brush gently, for roughly two minutes, twice a day.
Both electronic and manual toothbrushes work well, so long as the electronic isn’t applying too much pressure to your teeth and gums. As for what works better between the two, it all depends on the person using it. For example, manual toothbrushes may help you reach more specific angles when brushing, but an electronic toothbrush may be easier if you have joint or mobility issues with your hands. Here is How to clean your teeth - Step-by-Step Guide
it is also wise to replace your toothbrush roughly every three months, or sooner if the bristles are beginning to split and fray, as they will not clean nearly as well as a fresh brush.
As for toothpastes, almost any brand will do to help eliminate bacteria and acids in the mouth. In general, toothpastes marked with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance will contain fluoride to help protect and strengthen your teeth.
Is Flossing Really That Important?
When you go to the dentist , one of the common questions you’ll be asked is if you’ve been flossing. There’s a reason why this question comes up so often: Flossing is important!
Flossing daily helps reach between your teeth where the bristles of your toothbrush may not be able to reach and helps clear away plaque and food from your gums. When you don’t properly floss, this plaque can start to harden, turning into tarter that wedges apart your teeth from your gums, creating pockets where the teeth can loosen.
Should I Rinse with Water or Mouthwash?
Rinsing after you brush your teeth helps clear away the last of the debris and residue. While rinsing with water achieves this, there’s no other real benefit. Rinsing with mouthwash on the other hand, has additional benefits.
Using mouthwash can help you with cavity protection, tooth sensitivity, and helps to freshen your breath. Specialty mouthwashes can also help with things like eliminating gum diseases or whiten your teeth.
It is important to note that while mouthwash can help give your breath a quick freshen-up during the day, it is not a substitute for properly brushing. Also, children under the ages of six are advised not to use mouthwash, to help reduce the risks of them accidentally swallowing it.