The American Dental Association advocates a consistent oral hygiene routine to help remove bacteria before it can contribute to oral health problems like tooth decay and periodontal disease. Your routine should include brushing your teeth each morning and night, as well as remembering to thoroughly floss at least once each day.
Brush
When you brush it is best to focus on cleaning each individual tooth by working the soft-bristled brush head in small circles. This will help clean away bacterial deposits far more effectively than simply sawing the brush back and forth at random.
Floss
When flossing it’s important to clean the spaces between your teeth as well as along your gumline. You also need to remember to floss behind each of your rear molars. These areas can easily trap food debris and plaque buildup.
Antiseptic Mouthwash
After you're done brushing and flossing your teeth, rinse your mouth vigorously with a modest amount of antiseptic mouthwash. This can help wash away loosened food particles and kill lingering oral bacteria. Even the most potent antiseptic properties cannot replace dental floss and its physical ability to clean bacterial deposits. Look for the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance before purchasing a new brand of antiseptic mouthwash.
If you're concerned about your oral hygiene, call us at 785-539-5949 to schedule your next dental checkup.