Taking care of your oral health starts with you, right at home! Your oral well-being is essential for overall physical and emotional health. Your teeth not only aid in chewing but also contribute to your appearance. To ensure your oral health stays optimal, it’s crucial to prioritize dental care both at home and with professional help.

The family dentist in Northwest Albuquerque, NM provides comprehensive dental services and offers guidance on maintaining excellent oral health habits at home.

Significance of oral care at home

Regardless of age, dental home care is crucial for everyone. Dental issues can affect anyone, making it essential for individuals to take responsibility for their oral health. While dentists diagnose and treat oral problems, maintaining proper oral hygiene at home is equally important. Consistent oral hygiene practices can minimize the risk of dental problems and associated diseases. By adhering to routine oral care, you can prevent the buildup of bacteria, plaque, and calculus, which are major contributors to tooth decay and gum disease.

Essential at-home oral care methods

Practicing dental home care is essential for maintaining optimal oral health conveniently at home. These effective routines can save both time and money by preventing the development or worsening of various oral conditions and reducing the need for extensive dental procedures.

The most essential dental home care methods or practices include the following:

Regular tooth brushing

• The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests using a soft-bristled brush and fluoridated toothpaste. 
• You are recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night before going to bed. 
• The correct method of brushing:
• Place the head of your brush at 45 45-degree angle to the gums, and gently brush your teeth in a small circular motion.

Dental flossing

• Daily flossing is the best way to remove plaque from the interdental areas (area between your adjacent teeth) that are not accessible through regular brushing. 
• This prevents damage to the teeth, gums, and the alveolar bone.
• The correct method of flossing:
• Take 30 to 40 cm of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers.
• Use your thumb and forefingers to guide the floss to insert it into the interdental area using a sawing motion. 
• Gently curve the floss into a “C” shape and gently move up and down to clean the area.

Other helpful oral aids

• Interdental brushes
• Mouth rinses
• Oral irrigators

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing issues such as tooth decay, gingivitis, and tooth loss. A healthy mouth contributes to overall physical and mental well-being, promoting holistic rehabilitation.