While many of us are staying at home, we may not realize we are not following our usual oral hygiene routine and are neglecting our teeth and gums. With less of a reason to get up, get dressed, and brush teeth to head out the door for a full days schedule ahead, we may be settling for a little less, which may be not following a good oral hygiene routine.
Here we provide a few easy tips and tricks to stay on the right track.
Brush Teeth at Night
Never go to bed without brushing your teeth. Even though you are home and sanitizing everything around you, plaque and germs can still accumulate within your mouth from the foods you are eating. As well as brushing at night it is always recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day.
Brush Properly
Brushing properly is as important as brushing your teeth at night and twice a day. When plaque builds up and not removed with proper brushing, the plaque will harden resulting in gingivitis, early gum disease (periodontitis). Always brush in a gentle circular motion.
Brush Tongue
Do you know plaque can build up on your tongue? Every time you brush, gently brush your tongue as well. This will not only remove the potential for bad breath but help to avoid other oral health problems.
Fluoride Toothpaste
Use a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride is considered the mainstay for oral health. It is the first defense against tooth decay. It fights bacteria and strengthens tooth enamel, which weakened teeth can result in tooth loss.
Flossing
Just as flossing is essential when you leave the house, it is still as crucial while staying home. Not only will you be removing food particles that get stuck between your teeth and reducing plaque, but you also will be stimulating your gums, which helps to lower inflammation.
Drink Water
Drinking water is vital for good overall health. Water lubricates our joints, delivers oxygen throughout our body, boosts skin beauty and health, cushions the brain, spinal cord, and other tissues, regulates body temperature, flushes body waste, maintains blood pressure, prevents kidney damage, and helps for weight loss. Along with these many benefits, water forms saliva in our mouth, which helps us to digest food and keep our mouths clean, reducing tooth decay.
Limit Acidic and Sugary Foods
Acidic foods can erode teeth enamel, which can lead to cavities. You may not realize that sugar converts into acid. We are not saying to stop eating these foods altogether, be mindful of what they do within your mouth.
Continue Oral Hygiene Routine
When you are out of the house and back to your daily schedule, visit your dentist at least two times per year. Routine cleanings and checkups are vital to maintaining good oral health.
Are you in need of a great dentist? Get in touch with the team at Suburban Essex Dental to set up a consultation. We will be happy to help you get back to your normal oral hygiene routine.
Our dental office is located in West Orange, NJ in Essex County. For the past eight years, New Jersey Monthly has voted Dr. Feldman an NJ Top Dentist in the state of New Jersey.
