Oral Hygiene Basics: What You Need to Know

When it comes to good oral hygiene, many adults lack the proper knowledge to keep teeth clean and healthy. It is important to learn as much as you can about oral hygiene, especially when you have children. Practicing good oral hygiene habits, yourself and instilling good habits in your children, will ensure that your kids grow up to have healthy teeth and gums. Below are a few tips on good oral hygiene and what you can do to maintain a healthy mouth.

Good Oral Hygiene Key Factors

For you to have good oral hygiene, you must make sure that your teeth and clean and free of debris. To do this, teeth must be brushed twice a day and flossed. Gums should be pink and not bleed or hurt when you brush your teeth or floss. When bleeding or pain occurs, you may have an issue with your oral health. Bad breath should also be controlled and not a problem. If you find that your breath is still an issue after cleaning your mouth, it could signify a greater oral health issue.

Proper Techniques

Brushing and flossing properly are key to healthy teeth and gums. With brushing, you should be tilting the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gum line and then roll or sweep the brush away from the gum line as you brush your teeth. The outside, inside and chewing surface of each tooth should be brushed. Your tongue should also be brushed to remove bacteria.

With flossing, you will need about 18 inches of floss and have an inch or two to work with. Follow the curves of your teeth to remove food particles. You want to move the floss beneath the gum line to remove any deep food particles.

Consulting with your Chippewa Falls dentist will ensure that your teeth and gums remain in good health. Contact us today to schedule a regular cleaning or to learn more about proper oral health.