Do you ever wonder what else you can do for your oral hygiene besides brushing and flossing? Most people have a dental care routine that we learned as kids. Even if you do all the basics, there's always a way to take your personal care up a notch. Dental hygiene means more than just clean teeth alone. Keeping your gums healthy can even protect your heart and prevent strokes. Bad gums can allow viruses and bacteria to get into your bloodstream. From there, they can attack your heart valves and cause other problems. Here are a few easy ideas you can add to your routine that will help maintain your oral health in good condition.
Wear a Bite Guard
Do you have a nighttime tooth grinding or clenching problem? Being under constant stress can cause bruxism, which means gritting and grinding your teeth. Many people grind their teeth in the daytime without realizing it, like when they're in rush hour traffic or under deadline for a school assignment. If you grind your teeth at night or during the day, give them a break by wearing a bite guard. You can bite guards at most drug stores. To use them, you mold them to your mouth by softening them in boiling water for a close fit. They're easy to use and easy to clean. And, they'll save your wallet from having to pay for expensive tooth repairs!
Do Some Safe Whitening
Another idea for good oral cleanliness is to whiten your teeth. Although professional routine cleaning helps with tooth whiteness, over-the-counter kits are an added boost. Most whitening kits come with a tray for whitening paste that you place around your teeth. After applying the paste for a few minutes a day, you'll start to see your teeth brighten up. While at-home whitening can help achieve certain results, if you have high tooth sensitivity and want your results to last, it is always a good idea to reach out to your dentist and get your teeth whitened professionally.
Use a Tongue Scraper
If bad breath makes you worry when you're in social situations, you're not alone. Fortunately, there are ways to deal with it besides just masking it with mouth wash. Sometimes bad breath comes from the foods you eat, in which case you can avoid eating certain foods. Another thing you can do is use a tongue scraper for oral care or a brush to remove old cells and bacteria in your mouth. Not only are they the number one cause for bad breath, but can also lead to infection if not taken care of regularly. To use a tongue scraper, rake your tongue with the flat side of the scraper, then brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with mouth wash. If you prefer, you can use a toothbrush, which is just as effective.
Try a "Sensitive" Toothpaste
If your teeth hurt a lot, try a "sensitive" toothpaste. These ingredients fill in the microscopic holes in your teeth that cause pain. Most people with sensitive teeth complain about sore teeth after eating hot, cold, or spicy foods. "Sensitive" toothpaste can strengthen your tooth enamel and help with nerve sensitivity.
Use These Oral Hygiene Tips and Keep Smiling
So now you know a few extra ways to keep your mouth happy. You can show off that gorgeous smile of yours with its healthy teeth and gums! Don't forget to boost your good oral hygiene by visiting your dentist regularly. To schedule a visit with our office in Prince George, get in touch with us. We'll take care of everything from basic dental cleaning to any more serious concerns you may have.