Go beyond brushing and flossing. Nine oral health care tips from a professional dentist

Good oral hygiene is vital for a healthy mouth, and it’s no secret that brushing and flossing twice a day are essential habits for anyone looking to maintain a bright and healthy smile. But there’s more to maintaining good oral hygiene than just brushing and flossing, and professional dentists have a few tips and tricks to help us keep our teeth in tip-top condition.

At PS Dental Care in Soho, our expert team of dentists have put together a list of nine tips to help our patients go beyond the basics and ensure they maintain healthy teeth and gums.

1. Regular check-ups

Most dentists recommend visiting the practice at least twice a year for a professional cleaning and check-up. During your visit, our dentist in Soho will be able to spot any potential problems with your teeth, gums and mouth, and provide you with the necessary advice and treatment.

2. Use the right toothbrush and toothpaste

An effective toothbrush should have soft bristles and be the right size to fit comfortably in your mouth. We also recommend using a toothpaste that contains fluoride, as this helps to strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of decay.

3. Avoid sugary food and drink

Sugar is the leading cause of tooth decay, so it’s important to limit the amount of sugary food and drink you consume. Sweets, cakes, fizzy drinks and fruit juices are all high in sugar and can have a negative impact on your oral hygiene.

4. Quit smoking

Smoking can have a detrimental effect on your oral health, increasing your risk of gum disease and causing discolouration to your teeth. If you’re a smoker, it’s important to speak to our dentist in Soho or a doctor about ways to stop.

5. Clean your tongue

Your tongue can be a breeding ground for bacteria, so it’s important to clean it regularly with a tongue scraper. This will help to remove any bacteria from the surface of your tongue, reducing the risk of bad breath.

6. Cut down on alcohol

Regular consumption of alcohol can lead to dry mouth, which can cause an increase in bacteria. Drinking alcohol in moderation and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water can help to reduce the risk of dry mouth.

7. Chew sugar-free gum

Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can help to remove food particles from your teeth, reducing the risk of cavities. It also helps to increase the flow of saliva, which helps to neutralise the acid in your mouth and protect your teeth.

8. Floss regularly

Flossing is an essential part of a good oral hygiene routine, as it helps to remove plaque and food particles that have become stuck between your teeth and gums. Flossing should be done at least once a day, and it’s important to use a gentle but firm pressure when flossing to make sure all areas are clean.

9. Use an electric toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are a great way to get a deeper clean than manual brushes, as they vibrate and rotate to remove plaque and bacteria more effectively. They’re also more gentle on the gums than manual brushes, so they can help to reduce the risk of gum disease.

At PS Dental Care, our trusted dentist in Soho is committed to helping our patients maintain a healthy mouth and smile. Following these nine tips will help you to go beyond brushing and flossing, and ensure your teeth and gums stay in top condition.