Happy National Smile Month to you all! During this time, we celebrate the importance of maintaining an excellent level of oral health. Taking care of your teeth and gums not only contributes to a dazzling appearance and a noticeable confidence boost, but it also plays a crucial role in your overall well-being.
In this blog post, we will share essential tips and techniques to improve your oral health, including enhancing your teeth brushing technique, mastering the art of flossing, and other valuable oral health advice. Let's dive in and unlock the secrets to a healthy, radiant smile!
Have you got your brushing technique down to a T?
Brushing your teeth is the foundation of good oral hygiene. However, many people do not realise that proper brushing technique is as important as frequency. Our expert Fulham dentists have compiled this list of tips to help you improve your brushing routine:
Choose the perfect toothbrush. Ideally, this should be an electric brush - but failing this, opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits comfortably in your hand and has a small head to reach all areas of your mouth easily.
Spend the right amount of time brushing. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day. Divide your mouth into four sections and spend 30 seconds on each quadrant, using gentle, circular motions.
Position your brush at the right angle. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line. Brush both the outer and inner surfaces of your teeth, as well as the chewing surfaces.
Don’t neglect your tongue! Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Master the art of flossing
Alongside brushing, flossing also plays a vital role in your oral hygiene routine. Despite this, many of the patients that visit our Fulham dental practice don’t know the proper way to floss their teeth, and this improper technique often results in damage to the teeth and gums over time.
To ensure you’re flossing effectively, follow these simple steps:
Use a dental floss that suits your needs, such as waxed or unwaxed floss, floss picks, or water flossers. Experiment and find the one that works best for you.
Take a strand of floss and wind it around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches of floss to work with. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it around each tooth in a C shape. Glide it up and down to remove plaque and debris.
Remember to floss both sides of each tooth, including the gum line. Don't forget the back teeth, as they are often neglected.
Watch what you eat
What you eat doesn’t just impact your overall health, but the health of your teeth and gums too. Sugary and acidic foods promote tooth decay and enamel erosion, so you should aim to minimise your consumption of candies, sodas, and citrus fruits. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Include calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds in your diet. Crunchy fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, can help clean your teeth naturally.
Visit your Fulham dental practice for routine examinations
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. Schedule visits to your Fulham dental practice every six months - unless recommended otherwise - for professional cleanings and thorough examinations.
The skilled dentists at our Fulham dental practice are experts in spotting oral health issues early and treating them before they escalate, ensuring your smile stays bright and healthy for years to come.
Make some lifestyle changes
Certain elements of your lifestyle might have more of an effect on your oral health than you think. Alongside improving your oral hygiene routine and adjusting your diet, we suggest making these changes to keep your teeth and gums in the best possible condition.
Quit smoking
Smoking not only stains your teeth but also increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Seek support to quit this detrimental habit.
Limit your alcohol consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to dry mouth and increased oral health risks. Drink alcohol in moderation and ensure you stay hydrated with water.
Protect your teeth from damage
If you play contact sports, wear a mouthguard to prevent dental injuries. Additionally, avoid using your teeth as tools to open bottles or packages, as this can lead to chips or cracks.
Now’s the perfect time to make a change!
National Smile Month serves as a reminder to prioritise our oral health and work towards achieving a radiant smile. By implementing proper teeth brushing techniques, mastering the art of flossing, adopting a mouth-friendly diet, attending regular dental check-ups, and embracing good habits, you can significantly improve your oral health.
If you’re in any doubt about your brushing or flossing techniques, book a hygiene appointment at our Fulham dental practice. Our hygienists will demonstrate the proper way to brush and floss, and give you expert oral health advice to keep your teeth on track.
Remember, a beautiful smile not only enhances your appearance but also contributes to your overall well-being. Celebrate National Smile Month with us by committing to a healthier oral care routine today!
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