A beautiful smile radiates confidence, and we all want to keep that smile healthy and bright. Here are the best practices you can follow at home to keep your oral health in good standing.

Brushing and flossing

Your toothbrush and floss are the two most important tools in at-home dental care. Always keep these on hand, so you can use them at least twice a day. Make sure to always brush for two minutes and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel. Flossing is also extremely important. You should floss once per day to remove plaque between teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. If you experience difficulty flossing, consider investing in a water pick or interdental cleaners. These tools will help remove plaque from your teeth and gums.

Use A Mouthwash

The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth at least twice per day and flossing at least once. You should also use mouthwash after you finish brushing and flossing, as mouthwash can keep your breath fresh. But be sure to rinse with water first to remove any loose food particles from your mouth. Then, swish with mouthwash for at least 30 seconds to kill any bacteria present in your mouth. Rinsing your mouth after you finish a meal helps eliminate bad breath, too!

Regular dental checkups

Visiting your dentist regularly for a checkup and cleaning is one of the best things you can do to maintain your oral health. In fact, the American Dental Association recommends visiting the dentist every six months for preventive care and routine cleanings to keep plaque at bay. You should also be brushing twice each day for two minutes each session and flossing once per day.

Additionally, you should be keeping an eye on your gums for signs of disease such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. If you spot bleeding when you brush or floss, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible for treatment recommendations. In addition, if you’re suffering from chronic bad breath that doesn’t respond to at-home remedies, you should see a dentist to rule out more serious concerns like infection or gum disease.

Your dentist can also recommend other at-home practices to keep your smile healthy. For instance, consider cutting back on sugary drinks and foods and drinks that are high in acid, like citrus fruits and juices. Also, stay away from tobacco cigarettes and chewing tobacco to prevent gum disease and other oral health concerns. Following your home care instructions will help keep your smile bright and beautiful.

To learn more, visit Sedation Dental Spa of South Florida at 18431 Miramar Pkwy, Miramar 33029, or 2028 East Sample Road, Lighthouse Point 33064. You can also call us at (954) 433-4300 or (954) 946-8484, respectively.