Taking care of your oral health is a constant battle against bacteria, and the staff at Kathleen Kujiraoka, DDS, in Kaneohe, HI, share several steps to take for the best results. Most people know to brush their teeth and floss, but there are additional steps you can take to protect your mouth. Moving forward, use the family dentist-approved tips below to improve your oral hygiene.

3 Dental Hygiene Tips to Implement 

1. Hydrate

Saliva helps rinse bacteria and food particles from your mouth. When you're dehydrated, however, you won't produce enough saliva to keep your mouth clean. However, when you’re dehydrated, you don’t produce enough, causing bacteria to sit on your teeth. To resolve the issue, always stay hydrated. Aim to drink eight-ounce glasses of water each day, and listen to your family dentist if you experience dry mouth.

2. Buy the Right Dental Products 

Floss, toothbrushes, and toothpaste aren’t all generic. Some are specialized, and it’s important to use the right tools. Choose a brush—usually soft to medium-soft—based on what your family dentist advises. You should also be able to move it around your mouth easily to reach all surfaces. If you have sensitive gums or tight spaces between your teeth, choose the right gauge floss. Also, pay attention to your toothpaste, as you may need specialized brands for sensitivity or gingivitis.

3. Brush Your Tongue & Gums

Most people fail to remember that their gums and tongue deserve attention. While they don’t need vigorous scrubbing like teeth, it’s helpful to lightly brush over them during your teeth cleaning. This will reduce bad breath and remove any debris near your gums. If you need assistance, ask your family dentist to demonstrate.

You’ll notice immediate benefits after making a few changes, and more importantly, you’ll preserve your smile. For assistance, turn to a family dentist at Kathleen Kujiraoka DDS. They offer comprehensive dental care services and will work closely with you to ensure you achieve a healthy, lasting smile. Call (808) 235-2121 to schedule an exam with a dentist, and visit the website to learn more about their practice.