Daily Home Care for Lifelong Smiles
A beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime is our ultimate goal when treating patients. Your personal home care plays an important role in achieving that goal. Your personal home care starts by eating balanced meals, reducing the number of snacks you eat, and correctly using the various dental aids that help control the plaque and bacteria that cause dental disease.
At-Home Oral Hygiene Instructions
Brush twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and ADA-approved toothpaste, holding it at a 45-degree angle and using gentle circular motions on all surfaces and tongue. Floss daily to clean between teeth and gums. Rinse after meals, and use dentist-recommended aids like interdental brushes or fluoride for optimal oral health.
Tooth Brushing
Brush your teeth at least twice a day (especially before going to bed at night) with an ADA approved soft bristle brush and toothpaste.
- Place the brush at a 45 degree angle to the gums and gently brush using a small, circular motion, ensuring that you always feel the bristles on the gums.
- Brush the outer, inner, and biting surfaces of each tooth.
- Use the tip of the brush to clean the inside of the front teeth.
- Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
Electric toothbrushes are also recommended. They are easy to use and can remove plaque efficiently. Simply place the bristles of the electric brush on your gums and teeth and allow the brush to do its job, several teeth at a time.
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Flossing
Daily flossing is the best way to clean between the teeth and under the gumline. Flossing not only helps clean these spaces, it disrupts plaque colonies from building up, preventing damage to the gums, teeth, and bone.
- Take 12-16 inches (30-40cm) of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 2 inches (5cm) of floss between the hands.
- Using your thumbs and forefingers to guide the floss, gently insert the floss between teeth using a sawing motion.
- Curve the floss into a “C” shape around each tooth and under the gumline. Gently move the floss up and down, cleaning the side of each tooth.
Floss holders are recommended if you have difficulty using conventional floss.
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Rinsing
It is important to rinse your mouth with water after brushing and after meals if you are unable to brush. If you are using an over-the-counter product for rinsing, it’s a good idea to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist on its appropriateness for you.
Use other dental aids as recommended by your dentist or dental hygienist: interdental brushes, rubber tip stimulators, tongue cleaners, irrigation devices, fluoride, medicated rinses, etc., can all play a role in good dental home care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q.
What daily home care routine should I follow for healthy teeth and gums?
A.
A solid daily routine includes brushing twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between teeth with floss or interdental tools, and rinsing as needed. Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to support your oral health.
Q.
How often should I replace my toothbrush or brush head?
A.
Dentists typically recommend replacing your toothbrush or electric brush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed. A worn brush is less effective at removing plaque and debris.
Q.
Do I really need to floss every day?
A.
Yes. Daily flossing (or using interdental cleaners) removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gumline — areas your toothbrush can’t reach — helping prevent cavities and gum disease.
Q.
Can mouthwash help with oral hygiene at home?
A.
Mouthwash can provide additional benefits, such as reducing bacteria or delivering fluoride, but it shouldn’t replace brushing and flossing. Ask your dentist which type is best for your needs.
Q.
How does my diet affect my oral health?
A.
Limiting sugary snacks and drinks helps reduce the risk of tooth decay, since harmful oral bacteria feed on sugars and produce acids that attack enamel. Eating nutrient-rich foods supports stronger teeth and healthier gums.
