You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and use mouthwash, but is that enough? Many people don't realize that lazy teeth cleaning can have a negative effect on your oral, and overall, health. It may feel difficult to schedule your regular dental appointments, but there are some everyday tips that are easy to put into your routine.

5 Steps Missing from Your Oral Hygiene Routine

1: Cleaning Your Tongue

Cleaning your tongue is just as important as brushing your teeth. Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue and cause bad breath and other dental problems. Use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush to clean your tongue gently.

2: Brushing Your Teeth for A Full Two Minutes

Most people brush their teeth for less than a minute, which is not enough time to remove all the plaque and food particles. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day, to keep them clean and healthy.

3: Using Interdental Brushes

Flossing is essential, but interdental brushes can also help to clean the spaces between your teeth that are hard to reach with floss. Use them to remove plaque and food particles and to prevent gum disease.

4: Rinsing with Mouthwash

An antimicrobial mouthwash can help flush plaque and bacteria off of your teeth, tongue, and crevices in your mouth, for an all-over clean that leaves breath fresher.

5: Cleaning Your Toothbrush

If your toothbrush is cleaning your mouth, then it's taking out something with it. Clean off your brush under a warm tap and be sure to store it in a cool, dry place. You can also soak it in mouthwash on a weekly basis. Be sure to replace your brush head ever 3 months. 

If you are looking for a reliable and experienced dentist in Sacramento, CA, Ronald L. Rasmussen, DDS is here to help. With over 30 years of experience, their practice provides a wide range of dental services, including teeth cleaning, fillings, root canals, and more. Contact them today at (916) 689-1100 or visit their website to schedule an appointment.