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Oral Hygiene

The cornerstone to a good at-home oral hygiene regimen is proper brushing and flossing. Practicing excellent dental hygiene avoids unhealthy teeth and costly dental treatments.

Brushing - Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste

Brushing

Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and a small strip of fluoride toothpaste. When you brush your teeth, move the brush in small, circular motions to reach food particles that may be under your gum line. Hold the toothbrush at an angle and brush slowly and carefully, covering all areas between teeth and the surface of each tooth. It will take you several minutes to thoroughly brush your teeth. Brush up on the lower teeth, down on the upper teeth and the outside, inside and chewing surface of your front and back teeth. Brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth before you rinse.

Brush your teeth four times daily to avoid the accumulation of food particles and plaque:

  • In the morning after breakfast
  • After lunch or right after school
  • After dinner
  • At bedtime

Do not swallow any toothpaste, and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after you finish brushing. As soon as the bristles start to wear down or fray, replace your toothbrush with a new one.

Flossing - For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can't reach, dental floss is used to remove food particles and plaque.

Flossing

For areas between the teeth that a toothbrush can't reach, dental floss is used to remove food particles and plaque. Dental floss is a thin thread of waxed nylon that is used to reach below the gum line and clean between teeth. It is very important to floss between your teeth every day.

Pull a small length of floss from the dispenser. Wrap the ends of the floss tightly around your middle fingers. Guide the floss between all teeth to the gum line, pulling out any food particles or plaque. Unwrap clean floss from around your fingers as you go so that you have used the floss from beginning to end when you finish. Floss behind all of your back teeth.

Floss at night to make sure your teeth are clean before you go to bed. When you first begin flossing, your gums may bleed a little. If the bleeding does not stop after the first few times flossing, let a staff member know at your next appointment.

Oral Hygiene: Best Practices for a Healthier Smile

Maintaining good oral hygiene is the key to a healthy smile, strong teeth, and fresh breath. At Seguin Smiles we educate our patients on the best dental care habits to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. By following a proper daily dental routine, you can protect your teeth and gums for a lifetime. 

Top Oral Hygiene Tips from Dentists 

Follow these dentist-recommended oral hygiene practices to keep your teeth and gums in top shape: 

  • Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day  
    Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes. Brushing helps remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Consider using an electric toothbrush for a deeper clean. 
  • Floss Daily to Remove Plaque  
    Flossing is essential for cleaning between teeth and along the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Daily flossing prevents cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath. 
  • Use an Antibacterial Mouthwash  
    A fluoride or antibacterial mouth rinse helps kill harmful bacteria, freshens breath, and strengthens tooth enamel. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid dry mouth. 
  • Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods 
    Excess sugar and acidic foods can weaken enamel and increase the risk of cavities and tooth erosion. Reduce consumption of soda, candy, citrus fruits, and processed snacks to protect your teeth. 
  • Drink Plenty of Water  
    Staying hydrated helps wash away bacteria, neutralize acids, and keep your mouth moist and healthy. Water with fluoride also strengthens enamel and prevents tooth decay. 
  • Visit Your Dentist for Regular Cleanings 
    Routine dental checkups and professional cleanings every six months are crucial for removing tartar buildup, detecting cavities early, and maintaining gum health. Early detection of gum disease and oral cancer can prevent serious health issues. 

Why Is Good Oral Hygiene Important? 

Following a consistent oral hygiene routine helps prevent: 

  • Cavities – Bacteria buildup leads to tooth decay and enamel damage 
  • Gum Disease – Early-stage gingivitis can progress to periodontitis if untreated 
  • Tooth Loss – Advanced gum disease can cause loose teeth or permanent tooth loss 
  • Bad Breath (Halitosis) – Poor oral hygiene leads to persistent bad breath caused by bacteria

Schedule a Dental Cleaning Today! 

A healthy smile starts with great oral care! If you have questions about your oral hygiene routine or need a professional dental cleaning, contact Seguin Smiles today to schedule your appointment. 

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