Effective dental care takes a balance between home care and dentist office visits. Did you know that you can reduce the amount of time you spend in a dentist’s chair by improving your at-home routine? It’s all about using that time more effectively.
With that in mind, Brian Goodman, DDS, and Tanner Goodman, DMD at Goodman Dental Center in Queen Creek, Arizona, offer up these dental hygiene hacks that help you get the most from your daily home care regimen. Some of these are refinements to techniques you’re already using, and some might be surprising additions. All of them can help you improve your overall oral health.
Flossing before brushing reduces plaque on your teeth better than flossing after, according to at least one research study. Flossing once a day is the recommended minimum, but you can add another session to your morning routine. The key is to eliminate as much plaque as possible before it hardens into tartar.
Using mouthwash is primarily a breath-freshening activity, even if you’re using a product with added benefits. Mouthwash is never a replacement for brushing and flossing, and when you use mouthwash, it can actually reduce the effectiveness of brushing with fluoride toothpaste. Rinse before brushing to avoid washing away the helpful additives left by toothpaste. Better still, wait an hour before using mouthwash when it’s possible.
You may be surprised how clean your teeth feel when you brush for a full two minutes. But keep in mind, your estimate of 120 seconds may fall far short, so set a timer. If you use smart home devices, it may be as simple as asking your smart speaker to set a two-minute timer when you start to brush.
This is a strategy that can stimulate saliva to dilute bacteria and stymie plaque production, while the particular “detergent” foods add a gentle yet potent scrub. Sugar-free gum performs this task, but you can also improve your nutrition by choosing apples, raw carrots and celery, and popcorn. Your after-snack brush and floss will be that much more effective.
Over-brushing is a real thing, and it’s a problem. It can be compounded by using abrasive products like whitening toothpastes. No consumer products can compete with dental office whitening, so consider ditching abrasive toothpastes and stiff-bristled brushes in favor of those with soft heads, replaced regularly at three-month intervals. If your brushes show wear before replacement, you may be brushing too hard.
When you’re eating somewhere that’s miles from a toothbrush, turn to your water glass or bottle for improvised oral care. Discreetly rinse and swish a few times after eating to reduce food particles in your mouth while diluting the effects of acidic food.
When it’s time for a checkup or other dental work, contact Goodman Dental Center to schedule your session. You can schedule an appointment by phone or online. Book your next exam now.
