5 Quick Oral Health Fixes

Easy Tips to Help You Improve Your Mouth Health

We have all heard that brushing our teeth twice a day, every day, and flossing regularly are an important part of a healthy smile. But, is there more we could be doing for superior oral hygiene? While brushing and flossing are mouth health staples, we shouldn’t stop there when it comes to taking care of our teeth, mouth, and gums. Here we have compiled some tips to help you go beyond the basic clean to help your smile and the rest of your mouth is the very best that it can be.

Never Share a Toothbrush

While it may seem completely safe to share a toothbrush with your significant other, it is best to keep some things in life separated. In reality, you are sharing share much more than a brush – this includes bacteria that may cause tooth decay. Since toothbrushes aren’t expensive, make sure to get your own.

Don’t Forget to Brush Your Tongue

Brushing twice a day is important, but many people forget their tongue. Even though you may feel rushed in the morning or too tired at night to make the effort, a few swipes using the tongue scraper on the back of the brush can make a big difference, getting rid of excess bacteria, and freshening breath.

Know How to Store Your Toothbrush

Toothbrushes are prone to picking up bacteria from surfaces, which ultimately end up in your mouth. Storing a brush laying down in a medicine cabinet or drawer is not ideal and it is best to store it upright in a holder or cup on the counter. This will help keep bacteria off the brush and allow it to dry properly. You can even add a tooth brush cover to keep it protected better.

Get a New Toothbrush

Do you remember the last time you bought a new toothbrush? If you don’t, it may be time to get a new one. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush, or toothbrush head if you are using an electric toothbrush, every three to four months. This helps to ensure the bristles are in the best shape to clean your teeth properly and helps to prevent the spread of any additional bacteria.

Keep Your Mouth Clean Between Meals

Brushing after every meal can be unrealistic, but there are ways you can keep your mouth clean between brushings. To prevent potential tooth decay make sure to use an antibacterial rinse after eating or chew sugar-free gum to help increase saliva and wash away sugars and acids.

Need more dental tips? When was the last time you actually visited the dentist? If you have not been to the dentist due to lack of insurance, you can benefit from a New Hampshire discount dental plan like the Wellness Dental Plan. For more information, please click here.

*Photo Courtesy of Andy Rennie via Creative Commons License