Why and How to Brush, Floss, and Rinse
Good oral health is linked to your overall well-being. Studies have shown that poor oral hygiene can increase your risk of developing serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Bacteria from your mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect other organs in your body, making regular brushing and flossing essential for maintaining not just your oral health, but your overall health.
How To Do It the Right Way:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes, reaching all surfaces of each tooth. If using a manual brush, use a small circular motion as you brush each tooth. It should take about 2 minutes.
- Use the Right Toothbrush: A soft-bristled brush is gentle on your gums and enamel. Electric toothbrushes have been clinically proven to work better than manual ones, and many electric brushes have timers to help you do your best.
- Floss Daily: Use about 18 inches of floss to clean between each pair of teeth. Gently slide the floss up and down, following the curve of each tooth.
- Don’t Forget Your Tongue: Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue, so remember to gently brush it to freshen your breath.
- Use a Quality Mouth Rinse for the Recommended Time: Read the Instructions on the back of the mouthrinse bottle! Most people swish and spit for less than 5 seconds, but the recommended rinse time for most mouthwashes is 30 to 60 seconds to properly eliminate bacteria. That can seem like an eternity until you get used to it. Use your phone timer to help.
- Right Before Bed: After you brush, floss, and rinse before bed, don’t eat or drink anything but water. Saliva helps kill bacteria, and salivary flow decreases significantly while you sleep. Going to sleep with a clean mouth and no food particles to feed bacteria helps prevent decay and gum disease!
Brushing, flossing, and rinsing daily are simple yet powerful habits that can protect your teeth, gums, and overall health. By dedicating just a few minutes each day to your oral hygiene routine, you’re investing in a healthier, happier future. So, don’t skip these vital steps—your smile, your wallet, and your body will thank you!