Elmhurst Dentist Walks You Through A Recommended Oral Hygiene Routine

Written by Dr. Scharfenberg on Jan 23, 2024

Sometimes the smallest changes in your routine really do make the biggest difference to the end result. With that in mind, our Elmhurst dentists have compiled this information about small tweaks and improvements you can make to your daily oral hygiene routine.

Freshen You Mouth Regularly

Bacterial plaque is always building up in your mouth. That’s why you need to be just as vigilant about fighting it. One simple way to discourage bacterial activity is to rinse your mouth with water or a formulated rinse throughout the day. 

Use The Correct Brush

The foundation of any quality at-home oral hygiene routine is brushing for at least two minutes in both the morning and night. However, using the right type of brush is necessary for success. Generally speaking, soft-bristled brushes are able to clean effectively without being too abrasive for your teeth and gums. Your dentist can let you know if you need a different type of brush. 

Schedule Smartly 

Did you know that there are certain times during which your dental enamel is softer, and thus more susceptible to damage? For example, right after you eat or drink something acidic, your teeth will be temporarily de-mineralized. Our team recommends that patients wait to brush their smiles for at least 20 to 30 minutes after they finish eating or drinking. 

Get The Most From Flossing

Not all flosses are created equal. When you are choosing floss, make sure you pick one that is an appropriate width—you need to be able to fit the floss between all of your teeth, even your back molars. 

You can start incorporating this information into your daily dental routine right away. As you continually improve your oral hygiene routine, you will notice that your mouth looks better and feels fresher. Have additional questions? Give our Elmhurst dentists a call!