Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene at Home

• Use the Right Toothbrush: We suggest a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is kinder to your gums.
• Proper Technique: Try holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Use gentle, circular motions. Brush all sides of your teeth.
• Duration: Try to brush for at least two minutes each time.

• Why Flossing is Important: Flossing removes plaque and food bits from between your teeth. It also cleans along the gum line. Your toothbrush cannot reach these places.
• Correct Method: Try about 18 inches of floss. Wind most of it around each middle finger, leaving an inch or two to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth. Follow the curve of each tooth. Try to slip the floss under the gums, where there are natural pockets between the tooth and the gums. Plaque often builds up there.

• Choose the Right Mouthwash: Look for a mouthwash that fights germs, or one with fluoride. It helps lower plaque and makes your teeth stronger. If you can, avoid mouthwash with alcohol, since it can irritate your gums.
• Usage: Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for 30 seconds to one minute. Please follow the directions on the bottle.

• Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks: Sugar feeds the plaque bacteria. These can lead to cavities, so it helps to have less of it.
• Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks: Sugar is not the only cause of cavities. Acidic foods and drinks can weaken your teeth. Examples are sparkling water, fruits and juices. Weak teeth let bacteria make cavities more easily.
• Eat Tooth-Friendly Foods: Try foods rich in calcium and phosphorous. These include dairy products, leafy greens and nuts. They help make your teeth stronger.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water washes away food bits and bacteria. This helps keep your mouth clean.

• Frequency: Visit your dentist at least twice a year, unless your dentist tells you otherwise. These visits are for your professional cleanings and checkups.
• Benefits: Regular visits help find and treat dental problems early. This stops bigger problems later on. Early care can also save you money. Bigger treatments cost much more than fillings. Examples are Root Canals, Crowns or Implants.

• Risks: Smoking and other tobacco products can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and oral cancer.
• Quit for Better Health: If you use tobacco, think about quitting. It is not easy, but it will help your mouth and your overall health. Smoking is often linked to other diseases that affect the whole body.

• Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports, a mouthguard is a good idea. It protects your teeth from injury.
• Avoid Chewing Hard Objects: Try not to chew ice, popcorn kernels or other hard things. They can crack or chip your teeth.

• When to Replace: It helps to change your toothbrush every three to four months. Change it sooner if the bristles are frayed.
• Hygiene Tip: Try to rinse your toothbrush well after each use. Store it upright so it can air dry.

We hope these tips fit into your daily routine. Then you can keep your mouth very clean and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile. If you have questions or would like more advice, please contact us at Carlton Dental. We are happy to help.