Keeping teeth healthy between dental visits comes down to consistent daily care: brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean between your teeth once a day, make thoughtful food and drink choices, and keep regular dental appointments. These habits help remove plaque and food debris, but they do not replace professional care. Basswood Dental Studio shares the following general guidance for maintaining an oral care routine.
Build a brushing routine that reaches every surface
The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Choose a brush that fits comfortably and lets you reach all areas of your mouth. Use gentle, short strokes along the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of your teeth. For the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and use several up-and-down strokes.
Replace a toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if its bristles become frayed. Choose an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste. For more detail on brush selection and technique, see the ADA MouthHealthy guide to brushing your teeth.
Clean between teeth and consider your daily choices
Toothbrush bristles do not reach every space between teeth. Clean between your teeth once a day to help remove plaque and food particles in those areas. Ask a dentist which tools or products suit your needs if you are unsure what to use.
A balanced diet that limits sugary snacks and beverages is another part of daily oral care. The right routine can vary with a person’s needs, so bring questions about dental products, habits or changes in your mouth to a dental visit.
Keep dental visits in your care plan
Home care is important, but it is only one part of prevention and care for oral disease. Regular dental visits allow a dentist to assess your oral health and discuss concerns that daily brushing and cleaning cannot resolve on their own. Contact Basswood Dental Studio through the Basswood Dental Studio website to learn more or plan a next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my teeth?
The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste.
How often should I clean between my teeth?
Clean between your teeth once a day to help remove plaque and food particles where toothbrush bristles may not reach. Ask a dentist which tools are suitable for you.
When should I replace my toothbrush?
Replace it every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
Can daily brushing and cleaning between teeth replace dental visits?
No. Home care is one part of oral health care. The ADA also recommends seeing a dentist regularly for prevention and treatment of oral disease.
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