If you brush your teeth twice a day, you might think you’re doing a great job with your oral health, right? Actually, that’s just the bare minimum!
Research shows that while brushing twice a day is definitely important, there are other steps you need to take to ensure your mouth stays healthy. Remember, we get just one set of adult teeth, and they need to last a lifetime.
**Flossing is Essential**
Many people skip flossing because they’re not sure how to do it correctly. If you struggle with getting floss between your teeth or it often breaks, you’re not alone. Thankfully, there are special types of floss designed for such issues, making the process much easier.
Here’s how you can floss properly:
1. Use a piece of floss about the length of your forearm.
2. Wrap one end around your middle finger and hold a couple of inches of the floss between your index finger and thumb.
3. Gently slide the floss between each tooth, curving it to wrap around one tooth and moving it up and down, then do the same for the adjacent tooth.
4. Repeat this process for all your teeth.
**Always floss before you brush!**
**Brushing Tips**
Think you know how to brush your teeth? Maybe not. Most people only brush for about 45 seconds, but you need at least two minutes. Make sure you’re brushing behind your teeth and your tongue, where plaque likes to hide. Many toothbrushes now come with a tongue scraper on the back.
A key tip: wait an hour after eating before you brush. Brushing too soon can push acid from food into your teeth, causing damage.
**Brush after you floss.**
**Using Mouthwash**
Some people use mouthwash as a quick solution when they don’t have time to brush, but this isn’t a good habit. Mouthwash should be used as the final step after brushing, not a replacement. It contains antibacterial ingredients that help eliminate bad breath and reduce plaque.
**Extra Tips for Healthy Teeth**
– Try to limit red wine and coffee, as they can stain your teeth.
– Reduce your sugar intake, since sugar leads to tooth decay.
– Pay attention to your gums. If they bleed or start receding, it could be a sign of gum disease. Any unusual symptoms should be checked by your dentist.
Taking these extra steps can make a big difference in maintaining your oral health for life!