5 Daily Habits for Healthy Teeth

It seems like everywhere you look, there is information about what you should or shouldn’t do for a healthy smile. Don’t drink coffee, use this toothpaste, get this treatment…the list goes on. But what habits are the best daily habits for healthy teeth? Today My Dental Clinic in Calgary is covering the top dental care habits you should be practicing for optimal oral health:

Routine Professional Dental Care

When it comes to optimal oral health, one of the most important steps is maintaining routine professional dental care. Although at home care is essential as well, visiting your Calgary dentist regularly will allow them to clean areas you may miss and keep an eye out for any serious complications.

Brushing Properly

We’ve all heard how important brushing twice a day can be, but did you know you should be brushing for at least two minutes each time? You should spend at least 30 seconds on each “quadrant” (top left, top right, bottom left, bottom right). Also be sure to get your tongue while you are in there cleaning!

Flossing Daily

Did you know only about 16% of Canadians floss their teeth daily? Although brushing your teeth is highly important, your toothbrush can’t reach every area. This is where floss comes in! Floss can reach in between the teeth to reach particles, debris and bacteria your brush might miss.

Hydrating

For many people, their drinks of choice are sodas, energy drinks, teas, and coffees. But did you know that water is important not only for your general health but also your oral health? Drinking water can hydrate the mouth, eliminate debris and bacteria and even reduce the risk of bad breath.

Cleaning Your Tongue

As mentioned above, cleaning your tongue is also important for healthy teeth. Bacteria doesn’t only live on teeth; it lives throughout your entire mouth including on your tongue. These bacteria, when left in the mouth, can increase the risk of decay, bad breath, and even gum disease.