March Is Oral Health Month: Tips for Dental Hygiene

In ideal circumstances, good oral health care and your body’s immune system keep bacteria under control. Daily flossing and brushing prevent bacteria from reaching dangerous levels. It can result in oral infections like gum disease and tooth decay. 

In some instances, medications such as antihistamines and decongestants can reduce your saliva flow. Saliva helps wash away food particles, neutralizing bacteria-produced acids. This prevents an all-out microbial overgrowth or invasion that might lead to disease.

March is Oral Health Month, with dental experts marking the time to help raise dental hygiene awareness. It is imperative to exercise these dental hygiene practices.

Brush Your Teeth Before Going to Bed

The general rule or recommendation is to brush at least twice a day. Yet, many people overlook brushing teeth at night. It helps remove plaque and germs that accumulate during the day.

Brush Your Teeth Properly

Proper brushing technique is similarly crucial. Dentists say that improper brushing is almost as ineffective as not brushing your teeth at all. Move your toothbrush in moderate, circular motions. Take your time doing this to remove plaque. If left unaddressed, plaque hardens, leading to gingivitis and calculus buildup.

Use Toothpaste With Fluoride 

Good quality toothpaste is more than just its flavor and whitening power. Most importantly, it must contain fluoride, regardless of the version you choose. It has properties that successfully fight tooth decay. It provides a protective shield for your teeth and fights germs that cause decay.

Flossing Is Equally Important

Many people who brush their teeth regularly often neglect flossing. Flossing does more than remove food particles that are usually stuck between your teeth. It also lowers inflammation and stimulates your gums. Additionally, it is an effective way of reducing plaque. Doing it once a day is enough to get the job done.

Eat Healthy Foods

While ready-to-eat foods are opportune, they are not the best choice for your teeth. According to experts, crunchy vegetables and fruits are healthy for your teeth. They have healthy fiber and help strengthen your jaw. It is especially true for younger children whose jaws are still developing.

Drink Lots of Water

Water remains the ultimate beverage for your oral and overall health, in general. Experts recommend taking some water after each meal. It helps wash out the residues of acidic and sticky foods between brushing sessions.

Mouthwash Helps

Most people ignore mouthwash because its benefits seem vague. Mouthwashes can help in several ways, like:

• Cleaning hard-to-reach areas in your dental formula
• Reduction of acid levels in your mouth
• Re-mineralizing your teeth

Mouthwashes help balance things out in your mouth. They are ideal for children and older people whose ability to floss or brush is not fully efficient.

As we get into the Oral Health Month of March, it is imperative to observe optimal oral hygiene. Similarly, sensitizing your family and friends about dental hygiene during this period can bear fruit for many more years to come.

For more tips on dental hygiene, visit Cal Oaks Dental at our office in Murrieta, California. You can also call (951) 501-4900 today to book an appointment.