How to Floss, Brush and Multitask Your Way to Better Oral Health

Oral hygiene is important for oral health. It plays a vital role in maintaining the health of your teeth and gums in the long run. While we may argue that dental hygiene is not a Herculean task, it is not an easy task. It does require its fair share of understanding and know-how. With that in mind, let us take a closer look at how we can brush, floss and multitask our way to better oral health in 2020!

Brushing your teeth properly

The best dentist in Delhi will tell you that the goal of brushing your teeth is to not only remove food particles from your mouth but remove plaque as well. Plaque is a translucent substance that forms above the teeth and gums with time. Caused by bacteria, plaque can lead to several dental issues, including discoloration of teeth, cavities, bad breath, etc.

You need to brush your teeth for at least two minutes every time. Make sure you brush the top of the tooth, as well as the inside area using gentle, back and forth motions. Brush other areas like the gum line, soft tissues and the tongue as well to remove oral bacteria. Brush twice a day to keep the teeth clean and free of bacteria in the long run.

Flossing properly

The best way to remove food particles and bacteria between the teeth is to floss the latter. Regular flossing prevents bacteria from settling inside the tiny gaps between the teeth and on the gum line. 

When flossing, use your index finger to guide the floss in and around the gaps surrounding your teeth. Use gentle, back and forth motions to remove any food particle stuck in between the teeth. Do not use too much force, as this may cause the floss to scrape or cut the gums. Use a curved shape of the floss to clean the gumline. Change the area of floss for each tooth, as this prevents you from moving the plaque from one tooth to another. 

Following proper dietary measures

Most if not all of the dental clinics in India will advocate the fact that you will need to follow appropriate dietary measures to maintain oral health. It is a known fact that bacteria thrive on sugar, meaning the more sugar you intake, the higher the chances of getting cavities and gum diseases. 

Include more lean proteins and vegetables in your daily diet while limiting the use of sugary and processed foods. Avoid snacking in between meals to ensure your mouth remains clean in between brushings. Instead of relying on sugary or carbonated beverages to quench your thirst, consider drinking water. In addition to hydrating your body, water would flush away any bacteria hiding in your mouth.

Following the golden rule of oral hygiene

In addition to these tips, make sure to follow the golden rule of oral hygiene, which comprises the following steps.

Step 1: Brushing twice a day, making sure you brush your teeth for at least two minutes.

Step 2: Flossing your teeth regularly after meals.

Step 3: Limiting the intake of snacks once a day.

Step 4: Visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a complete oral exam and other procedures like professional cleaning if necessary.