Hello Oral Health Month!

With June being Oral Health Month, now’s the time to take stock of your teeth, re-evaluate your oral health routines, and adjust them as necessary. Re-commit yourself to brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash every day for fresher breath and a healthier, whiter smile. Here are some tips to brush up on just in case you’ve been slacking.

You already know you have to brush twice a day and floss once, but here’s a gentle reminder for the things you may have forgotten about:

• Drink plenty of water: This is hands down the easiest way to ensure better tooth and gum health. That’s because water flushes away harmful bacteria and food particles that can lead to tooth decay and loss, as well as gum disease. Using fluoride-enhanced water will foster better enamel strength, boosting the protective barrier qualities around your teeth. If you have chronic dry mouth or snore at night, water is even more important, as low saliva production can lead to tooth decay, mouth sores, gum disease, and bacterial buildup.
• Switch up your brushing technique: You could be doing it wrong. Dentists recommend that you hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, brushing in slow, small circles rather than wide, sweeping strokes. Be sure to cover the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Do this for two minutes twice a day.
• Clean and replace your brush: Rinse your brush after every use, and let it dry out in the open. Don’t use a toothbrush cover. Replace your brush every three months at least, or sooner if the bristles are starting to fray, or you’ve been sick.
• Use mouthwash: Brushing and flossing are essential, of course, but you should always follow this up with a swish of mouthwash. This liquid gets into crevices that are hard to reach, making sure all food particles are dislodged and harmful bacteria becomes neutralized. There are many mouthwash solutions on the market today, each with a different purpose. You can get one for stronger enamel, sensitive teeth, or remineralizing power to protect against plaque, decay, and bacteria.
• Use a tongue scraper: This will effectively remove built-up plaque that forms within the tongue’s many crevices and elevations. Bacteria that remains trapped here will lead to foul breath and oral hygiene problems.
• Use the right toothbrush: Choose a toothbrush that is appropriate for your teeth, with the right head size that isn’t so big that you can’t get to all those hard-to-reach areas. The bristles should be small so they can access the gaps of your teeth. It’s best to select soft bristles rather than medium or hard, so as to avoid damaging your gums.
• See your dentist twice a year: Even with the most diligent of brushing and flossing routines, you still need to see your dentist twice annually for a deep clean and a routine check of your mouth, gums, and tongue.

Contact Studio City Dental Center

As we head into Oral Health Month, take this time to look at your calendar and make sure you have your next dental visit scheduled with us. Don’t have anything planned? Contact us at 818-762-2977 to book a convenient time.