Are You Keeping Good Oral Hygiene Habits?

Keeping good oral hygiene habits is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Your teeth can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene habits. When you do not practice good oral hygiene regularly, the result can be tooth decay, gum infection and tooth loss. Regular dental visits with a family dentist are an important part of good oral hygiene and an excellent way to maintain a healthy mouth. Dr. Kent Molino and Dr. Todd Vaccaro are your Niskayuna, NY, family dentists.

Good Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene becomes a habit when you stick to a daily routine that includes brushing at least twice a day. It is also important to develop a habit of visiting your Niskayuna family dentist every six months for a checkup and dental cleaning. A few specific steps you can take at home to maintain good oral hygiene include:

• Brush teeth twice daily
• Floss daily
• Use a toothpaste with fluoride
• Rinse with a fluoridated mouth rinse daily
• Limit consumption of sugary snacks and foods

Proper Brushing

Even if are keeping good oral hygiene habits by brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, it is still possible your teeth aren’t fully clean if the proper brushing technique is not used. The proper way to brush is to gently scrub all of the surface areas inside the mouth, including teeth, gums and tongue. Brushing all surface areas helps clean away the bacteria that cause gingivitis and cavities. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles that are not too abrasive. The toothbrush should also fit comfortably in your mouth so be sure to select an appropriately sized toothbrush.

Keeping good oral hygiene habits is important for preventing gum disease, cavities and tooth decay. Maintaining good oral hygiene, which includes regular dental visits, will help your teeth last a lifetime. To schedule a dental visit with Dr. Molino or Dr. Vaccaro, your Niskayuna, NY, family dentists, call the office at (518) 377-3628.