You can significantly reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health problems by practicing good oral hygiene. At Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley in San Francisco, California, cosmetic and general dentists Aref Natour, DDS, Nisha Krishnaiah, DDS, and the team regularly educate patients on proper oral hygiene. Whether it’s time for bi-annual professional teeth cleaning or you simply have questions about your oral health, the team can help. Call the office to request an oral hygiene consultation today or book online.
What is oral hygiene?
Oral hygiene is the practice of caring for your teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing daily, regularly visiting the dentist, and eating a balanced diet can prevent tooth decay, gum recession, and other more serious problems.
Good oral hygiene matters, even if your teeth and gums seem healthy. Routine checkups at Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley can alert you to potential problems when they’re easiest to treat.
What does good oral hygiene involve?
The Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley team believes good oral hygiene starts with three simple practices:
Practice one - Brushing your teeth twice daily
The surfaces of your teeth are covered in plaque –– a mixture of food particles, saliva, and bacteria –– that hardens and sticks. Brushing your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush can prevent plaque and harmful bacteria from building up. What’s more, brushing your teeth massages your gums, which can prevent irritation and reduce your risk of gum disease.
Practice two - Flossing your teeth regularly
Try flossing your teeth at least once daily. Flossing removes plaque, food particles, and harmful bacteria from between your teeth and beneath your gums. It’s a quick and effective way to access harmful buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach.
Practice three - Selecting the right mouthwash
Brushing and flossing can prevent plaque and tartar buildup, but only mouthwash can fully eradicate harmful bacteria. The Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley team recommends using a sugar-free mouthwash that contains fluoride. Fluoride can help strengthen your enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
What else can I do to maintain good oral hygiene?
Yes. You can do various things to maintain good oral hygiene besides brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. The Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley team recommends:
- Drinking water (not sugary sodas and juices)
- Eating a balanced diet with lots of crunchy fruits and vegetables
- Limiting acidic drinks, such as alcohol and coffee
- Wearing a mouthguard when working out or playing sports
You should also schedule an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning every six months. Visiting your dentist twice each year can alert you to potential problems before they get out of hand.
Call Aesthetic Dentistry of Noe Valley to learn more about good oral hygiene today, or book online.