Maintaining great oral hygiene is essential for people of all ages. You’ll be rewarded for your efforts with an attractive smile, healthy teeth that last a lifetime, avoiding mouth pain, and having fresh-smelling breath. Use the following proven strategies to aim for the highest level of hygiene possible.

A Guide to Perfect Oral Hygiene

1. Brush Twice Daily

Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes during each session. Brush them in the morning and the evening; after brushing for the evening, do not eat or drink anything other than water so that sugar doesn’t sit on your teeth overnight. While brushing, hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your gums, then move the bristles back and forth with short strokes. Brush all surfaces of the teeth and the tongue.

2. Floss Daily

Floss at least once a day to target the buildup between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot get. Hold both ends between your index finger and thumb, with a couple of inches of floss between them. Move the floss between your teeth, cupping it against one side in a “C” shape, then moving it up and down. Do the same in the other direction and move to the next tooth.

3. Take Care of Your Equipment

Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly after each time you use it. Store it upright and in an open area, so it will quickly air dry. If it’s allowed to remain wet or stored covered, it may grow mold, yeast, or bacteria. Replace your toothbrush every two to three months.

4. Drink With a Straw

Sugary beverages are a leading cause of tooth decay since sugar coats the teeth, interacts with saliva, creates plaque, and fosters bacteria growth. Limit sugary drinks and enjoy them with a straw to reduce contact with your teeth. This will also prevent darker beverages such as coffee or tea from staining your smile.

5. See Your Dentist Regularly

Visit your dentist once every six months for a check-up and cleaning. During this cleaning, they will remove all plaque buildup that you’ve missed with at-home care. They’ll monitor your oral health with visual exams and x-rays to catch any issues early on.

Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C., and Waukon Dental are here to help you maintain superior oral hygiene. They offer many treatments and procedures, including cosmetic dentistry, teeth whitening, and oral exams. To learn more about their dentists and services at their three locations, visit Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C., Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, and Waukon Dental online.