Here we are…moments from a new year. And after this last one, we can theoretically only go up. And since now is the time we take a step back to take a look at ourselves in order to improve upon ourselves. Why not throw our dental health in the mix? And because our mouth is the first line of defense against other health issues, we should always try to keep our smiles healthy and bright. So, here are a few dental hygiene tips to help you brighten that smile and keep you on your dentist’s good side. They may seem obvious, but many of us can use the refresher:
Brushing. The rule of thumb is pretty well-known – brush your teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes. Start your day off right with fresh, clean breath and wrap up your day with a quick brush before bed to prevent cavities from forming while you snooze. Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and brush in rounded strokes to keep your gums healthy as well.
Flossing. It’s one of the least favorite tasks on the list of dental hygiene tasks. The problem is, flossing not only removes stuff stuck deep between each tooth, but it also keeps your gums healthy by preventing bacteria from getting inside and causing infection.
Rinsing. Rinsing is not only a quick way freshen breath, but it also adds an additional layer of protection from plaque and cavities. We have been taught to rinse with mouthwash after brushing, but doing it beforehand can loosen any particles you may have, making your brushing more effective.
If you have questions or concerns about dental health, make an appointment today with Dr. Philip Schnall at 212-247-7059 or visit our website at www.philipschnalldmd.com.
Dr. Schnall proudly serves New York and all surrounding areas.