Fresh breath, strong teeth and healthy gums are vital to your overall health. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends focusing on the Daily 4 to help people maintain healthy smiles.
BRUSH
Brush your teeth twice a day, for two minutes, with a soft-bristled brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. The size and shape of your brush should fit your mouth and easily reach the outer, inner, and chewing surfaces in your mouth. Don’t forget to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
FLOSS
You may have read recent reports questioning the benefits of flossing, but the ADA still recommends cleaning between your teeth once a day. Flossing will remove any plaque missed by brushing and prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
RINSE
Mouth wash kills bacteria in the mouth and may reduce your chance of dental decay and infection.
CHEW
Clinical studies have shown that chewing sugarless gum for 20 minutes following meals increases the flow of saliva, washing away food debris and preventing tooth decay. Gum also neutralizes acids produced by bacteria in the mouth.
Remember that adults are not immune to dental problems. Cutting back on tobacco use and sugary drinks will help maintain your oral health. In addition to maintaining a good home care routine, schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings at least twice a year.
