{"id":221,"date":"2021-05-02T19:18:05","date_gmt":"2021-05-02T19:18:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.peeryfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/?p=221"},"modified":"2021-06-16T19:18:30","modified_gmt":"2021-06-16T19:18:30","slug":"4-oral-hygiene-best-practices","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.peeryfamilydentistry.com\/blog\/4-oral-hygiene-best-practices\/","title":{"rendered":"4 Oral Hygiene Practices You Should Never Skip"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Woman\u2019sYou know you\u2019re supposed to brush and floss your teeth daily to maintain a healthy smile, but they aren\u2019t the only oral hygiene methods you should be using. Although you may not even be aware of them, they are crucial to preventing many common dental issues, like bad breath and tooth decay. Don\u2019t put your smile at risk. Here are 4 additional oral hygiene best practices to commit to every day.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n\n\n

1. Brush Your Tongue<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Although your tongue isn\u2019t susceptible to tooth decay, oral bacteria can thrive on it and accumulate quickly. If the buildup isn\u2019t removed, it can lead to several complications, like bad breath, diminished taste, black hair tongue, thrush, and periodontal disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Besides brushing your teeth, give your tongue a good scrubbing, too. Gently move your toothbrush back and forth and side to side before rinsing your mouth with water. You can also use a tongue scraper, which is placed on the back of the tongue and gently slid forward. The process may need to be repeated several times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Change Your Toothbrush Often<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your toothbrush is your first line of defense against cavities and gum disease, but it won\u2019t last forever. The bristles will become worn from daily wear and tear, making them less effective. It\u2019s best to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or when the bristles are frayed, whichever comes first. You should also change it after you\u2019ve been ill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When choosing a new toothbrush, decide between a manual or an electric one. No matter your choice, look for the American Dental Association\u2019s Seal of Acceptance. It\u2019s recommended you use soft bristles to avoid causing damage to your enamel and gums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Brush for 2 Minutes<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The American Dental Association suggests brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes in the morning and at night. Unfortunately, most people only brush for about 45 seconds, leaving harmful plaque and bacteria in their mouths. Research shows brushing for the full 2 minutes will remove as much as 26% more plaque than doing it for less than 1 minute. Setting a timer on your cellphone is a great way to keep track of how long you\u2019ve been brushing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Visit Your Dentist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your at-home dental care routine is vital for a healthy smile, but it\u2019s only half the attention your mouth needs. The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup<\/a>. Your dental hygienist will remove anything left behind by your toothbrush and floss. Your dentist will also make suggestions to improve your oral hygiene habits at home while also performing a comprehensive checkup.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t let simple mistakes compromise your smile. Commit to an effective oral hygiene routine today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

About Dr. James M. Peery III<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Peery<\/a> earned his dental degree at the MCV School of Dentistry. As the former President of the Lynchburg Dental Society, he is a qualified and trusted dentist for exceptional services. If it\u2019s time for your next cleaning and checkup, contact our office<\/a> to schedule an appointment.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

You know you\u2019re supposed to brush and floss your teeth daily to maintain a healthy smile, but they aren\u2019t the only oral hygiene methods you should be using. Although you may not even be aware of them, they are crucial to preventing many common dental issues, like bad breath and tooth decay. Don\u2019t put your […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[31],"yoast_head":"\n4 Oral Hygiene Best Practices for a Healthy Smile<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"A healthy smile begins at home but brushing and flossing aren\u2019t the only habits you should using. 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