Developing a Good Oral Care Routine

When's the last time you thought about your oral hygiene routine? Good oral hygiene, along with visits to the general dentistry office of your Germantown, TN, dentists, Drs. Charlyn Wilson and Nishel Patel, help you maintain a healthy smile.

How You Benefit From Oral Hygiene

Removing plaque from your teeth, a crucial element of oral hygiene, offers several benefits, including:

• Fewer Cavities: Sticky plaque contains bacteria. When bacteria come in contact with the sugars in food, strong acids form. These acids weaken your tooth enamel and cause tooth decay.
• Reduced Chance of Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar are factors in gum disease. Unlike plaque, hard tartar can't be removed simply by brushing. Fortunately, it's possible to prevent tartar from ever forming by thoroughly brushing and flossing on a regular basis.
• Better Breath: Plaque and tartar buildup can be a factor in bad breath, especially morning breath.

Elements of a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Your oral hygiene routine should include:

• Twice-Daily Brushing Sessions: Brushing your teeth first thing in the morning and before you go to bed at night eliminates plaque from your mouth. Toothpaste that contains fluoride is the best choice for your oral health. The mineral strengthens weak areas of tooth enamel, reducing your risk of tooth decay.
• Daily Flossing: Flossing gets rid of plaque and trapped food debris between teeth. If you don't already floss once a day, making this task a priority can help you lower your risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Tongue Brushing: Plaque coats your entire mouth, not just your teeth. Accordingly, it's a good idea to brush your tongue and the inside of your mouth every time you brush your teeth. If you don't, plaque will transfer to your teeth soon after you brush them.
• Using Mouthwash: Mouthwash offers a little added protection and is a good addition to your oral hygiene routine. Look for products that contain fluoride and kill bacteria during your next shopping trip.

Regular visits to our Germantown office help support your oral hygiene efforts, as well. Checkups include dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, a dental exam, and an oral cancer screening.

Do you need to schedule a general dentistry appointment? Call Wilson Dental Care in Germantown, TX, by dialing (901) 751-1100.