Besides brushing teeth daily, patients need to adopt other practices to achieve a sparkling and healthy smile. Notably, oral hygiene plays a significant role in overall health and well-being. Dental problems, such as gum diseases, are associated with an array of health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease and preterm labour. A dental care routine entails a variety of practices necessary to maintain an appropriate standard of oral health. That is why it is crucial to go beyond regular dental visits, flossing and brushing. Most dentists will recommend these steps to enhance one’s dental hygiene, which eventually improves one’s overall health and smile. 

Don’t neglect the tongue 

Many people tend to focus only on their teeth and forget to brush their tongue. However, plaque also builds-up on the tongue, which can cause mouth odour. Additionally, plaque build-up on the tongue causes other oral health concerns. A hygienist in Richmond advises people to gently brush their tongue while brushing their teeth, to prevent plaque build-up. Hygiene is integral in maintaining excellent dental health. 

Eat teeth whitening foods 

Some foods can be excellent in keeping teeth white. One of the habits a patient can incorporate into their dental care routine is eating course, raw, fibrous foods, such as cucumbers, carrots, apples, and lettuce. These foods scrub the tooth surface and get rid of plaque that builds up on the teeth. The accumulated plaque is what makes teeth appear yellow. Additionally the crunchy foods force a person to chew more, which stimulates saliva that aids in neutralising acids in the mouth that erode teeth. 

Limit or avoid acidic or sugary foods 

Sugar eventually converts into acid.. Unfortunately, this acid erodes the tooth enamel and causes cavities. Coffee, acidic fruits and tea wear down the tooth enamel, so therefore it is important to adopt a habit of limiting the intake of acidic and sugary foods to protect and reserve one’s oral health. 

Brush often but not aggressively 

By now, most people know that brushing their teeth at least twice a day is integral to appropriate oral hygiene. What many people probably don’t know is that for cleaning to be effective, one must use the correct technique. By cleaning the teeth with small circular motions making sure that the top, front and back of the mouth has been cleaned, people are able to maximise their oral hygiene effectiveness. They should also make sure they do not saw back and forth when cleaning. Brushing should take between two and three minutes. Often, people brush their teeth too hard or use a hard-bristled toothbrush. Unfortunately, this habit damages the sensitive gums and enamel. It is OK to use a soft-bristled toothbrush for proper oral hygiene. 

Drink more water