If you want to have fresh breath, healthy teeth, and a bright smile, your oral hygiene habits mean everything. But since good habits can wear away with routine, Patrick M. Pitts, DDS encourages everyone to review their dental care practices. To help boost your oral health, this Archdale, NC, dentist highlights his top tips for keeping your teeth and gums clean below.

4 Dental Care Habits to Follow

1. Take Your Time

Brushing your teeth twice a day is a good place to start when it comes to oral hygiene. However, rushing through the practice can increase the risk of tooth decay. As such, it’s important to take two full minutes twice a day to completely brush every side of every tooth. Additionally, brush your tongue to remove the bacteria buildup that could otherwise lead to tooth decay and bad breath. After that, floss around every tooth to remove bacteria-causing plaque and food particles.

2.  Use Mouthwash

When you’re done brushing and flossing, finish things off with a 30-second mouthwash rinse. There are several dentist-approved mouthwash products on the market—including some that don’t contain any alcohol. Not only will the rinse refresh your breath, but it will also kill off cavity-causing bacteria that may still be hiding out in your mouth.  

3. Cut Out Cigarettes

Cigarettes and other tobacco products are filled with toxic chemicals that are responsible for a variety of dental health problems, including tooth decay, oral cancer, and gum disease. Additionally, these components are responsible for yellowing teeth and leaving individuals with persistent bad breath.   

4. Don’t Skip Dental Cleanings

Although following the above steps will definitely provide your teeth with protection, it’s still critical to visit your dentist twice a year for teeth cleanings. Using special tools and methods, your provider will clean off tartar and plaque that toothbrushes and floss can’t remove. 

Whether you have questions about your oral hygiene practices or you need a routine cleaning, Patrick M. Pitts, DDS will help you protect your smile. Focused on providing comfortable service and advanced technology, this dentist offers complete general and cosmetic dentistry treatments. To schedule an appointment, give them a call at (336) 431-0002. For more information on their practice, visit their website today.