How Does Your Oral Health Routine Measure Up?

We’ve all been told about the importance of oral health from the day we were old enough to pick up a toothbrush. But when you have something you have to do every single day (seriously, every day is a lot!) it’s easy to get complacent and rush through the necessities. At my Charlottesville dental office, we want to give our patients a few reminders on how to get the best, cleanest mouth possible.  

Choose the Right Things

Toothbrush? Check. Toothpaste? Check. Floss? Check. Good to go, right? Well, not necessarily. Each person has unique needs and their dental tools should be selected accordingly.

• Toothbrush – This tool doesn’t vary so much from person to person, but there are some common traits you should look for unless otherwise told by your dentist. Pick a toothbrush with a medium-sized head for easier use. Soft bristles are also usually recommended to avoid damage to enamel or gums.
• Toothpaste – Toothpaste needs are pretty individualized. There are options out there that cater to those with sensitive teeth, others for people who want an extra fresh breath boost, and others for increased enamel protection. Talk with your dentist to find what’s right for you.
• Floss – First and foremost, floss is necessary for everyone, but like toothpaste, there are a variety of types for different needs. Teeth that are tighter and closer together need a floss that’s easy to slide in between them. These people should choose a waxed floss. If your teeth are not super tight, regular floss should be just fine.

Use Them the Right Way

Don’t get caught in the habit of mindlessly brushing and flossing your teeth. Brushing often enough, long enough, and correctly is crucial to ensuring your mouth is bacteria free. Take two minutes twice a day and gently scrub in small circles, hitting every surface of the teeth. Also make sure you’re removing particles between teeth by flossing once a day between each tooth and up under the gums.

Visit Your Dentist Every Six Months

Visits to your Charlottesville dentist every six months are a necessary part of a healthy mouth. Not only will your dental team perform a deep, professional cleaning, they’ll also check your mouth for any potential problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Your routine visit is also a perfect time to talk with your dentist about any cosmetic dentistry you may be interested in like teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, or veneers.

No matter how great your oral health routine is at home, if you’re missing regular visits with your dentist, your mouth isn’t the healthiest it can be. Don’t avoid the dentist, schedule an appointment at my dental office in Charlottesville today.

Accepting patients from Charlottesville, Earlysville, and Ruckersville.

About The Author

Dr. Jack T. Kayton

Dr. Jack T. Kayton has served families in Charlottesville and surrounding areas since 1994 through his general and family dentistry private practice. Believing that everyone deserves quality dental care, he donates his time to worthy causes. He volunteers at the Donated Dental Service and the Charlottesville Free Clinic. His professional affiliations include the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Academy of General Dentistry, among others.

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