The health of your smile is important; it can impact your ability to eat, drink, and talk, as well as your self-confidence. To keep your teeth white and shining, you’ll need to create a routine that works well for you. Here are a few simple ways to maintain your oral hygiene. 

A Quick Guide to Oral Hygiene

1. Brush Properly 

Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush; once in the morning and again at night. After placing your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against your teeth, brush softly, using tooth-wide strokes, to remove plaque, including along the gumline. Also, make sure you reach every surface of each tooth, including the back and sides. 

2. Floss Daily

Flossing removes plaque, tartar, and bacteria that sit between your teeth. Floss at least once a day to maintain your gum health. When doing so, use gentle strokes, and make sure you reach the entire gumline, especially around areas that have gaps or previous dental work; these spots accumulate more grime. Keep in mind that if you haven’t flossed in a long time, your gums may bleed. However, after a couple of weeks flossing, the bleeding should stop.

3. Get Routine Checkups

In addition to maintaining an oral hygiene routine, schedule regular checkups with your dentist. During the session, you can discuss any tooth issues that may be bothering you. Additionally, your teeth will be carefully examined for decay, existing damage, and tartar accumulations. Next, they will be professionally cleaned to remove deposits, preventing cavities.

When you need a reliable and friendly dentist, contact John P. Belbas, DDS in Lakeville, NY. For more than 30 years, he has been helping clients throughout Livingston County with patient-focused, state-of-the-art dental care. Whether you need a filling, dental implants, or oral hygiene advice, he can help. Schedule an appointment by calling (585) 346-5220, or visit the practice online to learn more about their services.