Our oral hygiene specialists recommend easy-to-understand habits that you can put into play right away. Read on to learn three of our favorite tips.
Follow the 2×2 Rule
Even with a packed schedule, you can fit in the 2×2 rule: Brushing your teeth twice a day for just two minutes.
Adopting this habit helps remove stray bits of food and bacteria that build up throughout the day. It can make a world of difference in preventing cavities and gum disease.
The key is to be thorough. Two minutes is plenty of time to cover all the surfaces of your teeth using a gentle circular motion. Get the best results with a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush.
If your mornings are particularly busy, you might barely have time to get dressed and grab a cup of coffee before you’re on your way to a busy day. Keep a travel-sized toothbrush at work or in your bag or backpack to ensure you can fit in your first brushing session every day.
Floss Daily
Flossing only takes a minute or two, and everyone can make time for it. Sadly, many do not: Around 33% of Americans don’t floss at all.
Flossing is vital because it removes the food particles and plaque between your teeth—areas that brushing alone can’t reach. Without regular flossing, plaque buildup can lead to cavities and gum disease.
If you’re struggling to make the time for flossing, consider using a pre-threaded floss pick or even a water flosser (make sure it has the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance). These tools are easy to carry in your bag, making it simple to stay on top of your oral hygiene routine even when you’re away from home.
Use Mouthwash
A quick rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash isn’t just good for freshening your breath: It effectively reduces plaque and provides extra protection against gum disease. Mouthwash can also flush out areas that brushing and flossing might miss, giving you extra coverage.
When pressed for time, Mouthwash offers a convenient way to keep your mouth feeling clean throughout the day.
Keep a small bottle in your bag or at your desk, and you can refresh your mouth after meals or coffee. It’s a quick, easy step that takes less than 30 seconds yet significantly boosts oral hygiene efforts.Â
Personalized Oral Health Care in Loris, SC
At Carolina Dental Care, we offer personalized oral hygiene tips and treatments to suit your needs, even with a busy lifestyle. The habits we discussed today can work alongside regular teeth cleaning and checkups to help you maintain a healthy, happy smile for a lifetime.Â
Call us today at 843-756-2273 to schedule an appointment at our Loris, SC, office.Â
