A dazzling white smile can light up a room, and taking care of your oral hygiene is the key to maintaining that radiant grin. In this blog post, we'll delve into the best practices for oral hygiene, covering the number of times a day to brush and floss teeth, the right products to use, and even how to bleach your teeth at home safely. All products in this article are recommended by Lisa Wensley, a professional dental hygienist (RDH) with more than 15 years of experience!  So, let's dive into dental care and discover how to keep your pearly whites at their best! (all links listed are Lisa's choice)

Brushing Your Teeth:

Brushing your teeth is the foundation of good oral hygiene. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

a. Frequency: Dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice daily, in the morning and before bedtime. This helps remove plaque and bacteria that accumulate throughout the day.

b. Toothbrush: Use a soft-bristle toothbrush with a small head. Investing in an electric toothbrush is ideal. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles show wear.

c. Toothpaste: Choose a non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. Use a pea-sized amount on your toothbrush.

d. Technique: Brush gently in a circular motion for at least two minutes, ensuring you cover all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Remember to brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Flossing Your Teeth:

Flossing is just as important as brushing, as it helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach.

a. Frequency: Ideally, you should floss once daily, preferably before bedtime.

b. Floss type: You can use traditional dental floss or floss picks, (Lisa's Choice) whichever you find more comfortable. Some people also prefer water flossers, which uses a stream of water to clean between teeth.

c. Technique: Gently slide the floss between your teeth, making a C-shape around each tooth and moving it up and down. Be careful not to snap the floss, as it can damage your gums.

Mouthwash:

Using an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can be a valuable addition to your oral hygiene routine. Colgate Total CPC is her top pick. It can help reduce bacteria, fight bad breath, and strengthen tooth enamel. Swish the mouthwash for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing.

Dental Checkups:

Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Visit your dentist at least twice yearly for professional cleanings and to address any oral health concerns.

At-Home Teeth Whitening:

At-home teeth whitening can be a safe and effective option to brighten your smile. Here are some steps to follow:

a. Consult your dentist: Before starting any teeth whitening treatment, consult your dentist to ensure your teeth are healthy and suitable for whitening.

b. Over-the-counter products: You can find over-the-counter whitening strips, gels, and toothpaste. Lisa prefers the Luelli Teeth Whitening Kit (With multi-coulour LED lights) for bleaching at home. Follow the instructions carefully for the best results. Remember to use the kit daily for 14 days max and then rest for a week before doing another round of bleaching kit. 

c. Natural remedies: Some people opt for natural methods like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, but using these with caution is essential to avoid damaging your enamel.

d. Custom trays: Dentists can provide custom-fitted whitening trays and professional-grade whitening gel at a greater cost.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial not only for a beautiful smile but also for overall health. Following these best practices, including brushing and flossing daily, choosing the right products, and consulting your dentist, you can enjoy a healthy, radiant smile that shines for years. And if you decide to bleach your teeth at home, remember to do so responsibly and under professional guidance for the best results.

Tracking your dental routine throughout the day will create better habits when it comes to your oral care.  Kids also benefit from monitoring their teeth cleaning and flossing routines.  Click here for a downloadable tracker to use daily while establishing your new routine.

To view the most recommended products (the complete list is under $150) for a whiter smile, click here (Canada) or here (USA).

Affiliate links in this article may earn the author income.