Everyone knows that brushing and flossing are the foundation of oral hygiene. They aren’t the only tools you have against tooth decay and gum disease, however. There are a few other best practices to stick to as well, and building healthy habits beyond general dental care can do wonders for maintaining your smile. Consider adding the following to your oral hygiene regimen.

Ways to Improve Your Oral Health

1. Stay Hydrated

Saliva plays an important role in cleaning your teeth throughout the day. When you aren’t eating, it keeps your gums hydrated and flushes food and debris from your mouth. Another reason to drink plenty of water is to avoid dry mouth. Eight 8-ounce glasses a day will make a great regular routine, but on gym days or long hikes, bring extra. 

2. Adjust Your Diet

Avoiding sugary sweets isn’t the only dietary way to benefit your teeth. Watch out for acidic fruits and foods as well. Instead, add beneficial foods like calcium-rich dairy and proteins to fortify enamel. You can also eat snacks that naturally “brush” your teeth, such as apples or broccoli. If you can’t brush on the go, carry a pack of sugar-free gum with you to stimulate saliva production.

3. See the Dentist

No matter how well you eat, brush, and floss, there are some places in your mouth you simply can’t clean on your own. This is why you should see the dentist for an oral hygiene checkup and teeth cleaning twice a year. They’ll address all the hard-to-reach areas and also handle preventive measures, such as molar sealant and fluoride coating, to protect your teeth. Most importantly, they’ll catch any oral health issues and resolve them before they can turn into serious problems.

Overdue for a trip to the dentist? Samuel Townsley Family & Cosmetic Dentistry of Foley, AL, brings over 25 years of experience in general dentistry care to his patients. He also provides a variety of cosmetic dentistry solutions, including teeth whitening, dentures, and dental implants. Explore his practice further online and call (251) 943-1521 to schedule an oral hygiene exam.