Maintaining optimal oral health is essential not only for a radiant smile but also for overall well-being. Whitney Rose DiFoggio, RDH, a registered dental hygienist and founder of the YouTube channel "Teeth Talk Girl," shares her comprehensive six-step oral care routine to help you elevate your dental hygiene practices.
Morning oral health routine
• Clean night guard and retainer: Begin your day by removing and cleaning your night guard and retainer. DiFoggio recommends using soap and water with a soft toothbrush. Always follow your dentist's specific instructions for cleaning these appliances.
• First brushing session: Before breakfast, brush your teeth using an electric toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes are favored by dentists for their efficacy in reducing plaque and gingivitis.
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• Tongue scraping: Utilize a tongue scraper to remove the buildup that contributes to morning breath. This practice enhances oral freshness and reduces bacteria.
• Interdental cleaning: Employ interdental brushes to clean between your teeth, especially if you're prone to plaque and tartar buildup on lower front teeth. Interdental brushes are effective in removing plaque and reducing gum inflammation.
• Post-breakfast care: After eating, wait 30 to 60 minutes before brushing to protect your enamel from acid erosion. If time is limited, rinse your mouth with water or an anti-cavity mouthwash to neutralize acids.
Evening oral health routine
• Evening brushing: Brush your teeth with an electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. After brushing, simply spit out the toothpaste without rinsing to allow fluoride to remain on your teeth longer.
• Flossing: Floss your teeth to remove plaque and food particles between teeth and under the gumline. Flossing helps prevent gum disease and cavities.
• Tongue scraping: Use a tongue scraper with rubber bristles to clean your tongue, reducing bacteria and promoting fresh breath.
• Warm water rinse: Rinse and gargle with warm water to help prevent tonsil stones and clear mucus from your throat.
• Interdental cleaning or water flossing: Incorporate interdental brushes or a water flosser into your routine. Water flossers are particularly beneficial for individuals with gingivitis or gum disease.
• Fluoride mouthwash: Finish with a fluoride mouthwash, swishing for a full minute. After spitting it out, avoid rinsing with water to let the fluoride continue protecting your teeth overnight.
By adopting this meticulous oral care routine, you can significantly enhance your dental health, prevent gum disease, and maintain a bright smile. Remember, consistent and proper oral hygiene practices are key to preventing dental issues and promoting overall health.