Hello there, I’m Dr. Edmond Ahdoot, and here at Smiles By Eddie in Woodland Hills, one of the most common questions I get is, “What’s really the best way to clean my teeth?” It’s a fantastic question, because while most of us brush daily, mastering your at-home oral hygiene routine is the absolute cornerstone of a healthy smile and prevents many common dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
You see, good oral hygiene isn’t just about avoiding bad breath; it’s about removing plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If left alone, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus), which leads to decay and gum inflammation. Luckily, with a few simple techniques and consistent effort, you can effectively clean your teeth and keep them sparkling!
Let’s dive into my top tips for optimal dental care right from your bathroom:
1. The Art of Brushing: It’s More Than Just a Quick Scrub
Brushing is your primary defense. But are you doing it effectively?
- Frequency & Duration: Aim for two minutes, twice a day. Yes, two full minutes! Most people underestimate how long this actually is. Consider using a timer or an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer.
- The Right Tool: I highly recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can actually wear away your enamel and irritate your gums over time. An electric toothbrush is often superior to a manual one because it does most of the work for you, removing more plaque and making it easier to hit all surfaces.
- The Right Technique:
- Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line.
- Use gentle, short, back-and-forth strokes or small circular motions. Don’t scrub aggressively!
- Brush all surfaces: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of every tooth.
- Don’t forget your tongue! Brushing or scraping your tongue helps remove bacteria and keeps your breath fresh.
- Toothpaste Choice: Always choose a fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens your tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria, which helps prevent cavities.
2. The Unsung Hero: Flossing for Those Hard-to-Reach Spots
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. That’s why flossing is absolutely non-negotiable for preventing gum disease. It reaches where your toothbrush can’t – between your teeth and under the gum line.
- Frequency: At least once a day, preferably before bed.
- Proper Technique:
- Take about 18 inches of floss and wrap most of it around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches to work with.
- Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it into a “C” shape against the side of one tooth.
- Gently slide it up and down, cleaning the side of that tooth, then repeat for the adjacent tooth.
- Don’t “snap” the floss into your gums; be gentle to avoid irritation.
- Alternatives: If traditional floss is challenging, consider water flossers (like Waterpik) or interdental brushes. These can be excellent tools to clean between teeth, especially for those with braces or bridges.
3. Beyond the Basics: Extra Steps for Optimal Oral Health
While brushing and flossing are the core, these can provide an extra boost:
- Mouthwash: An antimicrobial mouthwash can help reduce bacteria that cause plaque and gingivitis. Look for alcohol-free options, as alcohol can be drying. Mouthwash is a rinse, not a replacement for brushing and flossing.
- Healthy Diet: What you eat affects your teeth! Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as sugar feeds the bad bacteria in your mouth. Acidic foods and drinks can also erode enamel, so consume them in moderation and rinse with water afterward.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles and keeps your mouth moist, which is essential for saliva production – your mouth’s natural defense against decay.
4. The Cornerstone of Preventative Care: Regular Dental Visits
No matter how diligently you brush and floss, there will always be areas that you can’t quite reach, and hardened tartar will accumulate. That’s where we come in!
- Professional Dental Cleaning: Our skilled hygienists at Smiles By Eddie use specialized tools to remove all stubborn plaque and tartar, giving your teeth a truly deep clean. This is crucial for gum disease prevention and keeps your breath fresh and your smile bright.
- Dental Checkup: During your visit, I’ll conduct a comprehensive dental exam, including an oral cancer screening and checking for any early signs of cavities or other issues. Catching problems early means simpler, less invasive, and more affordable solutions.
For most individuals, I recommend a professional dental cleaning and dental checkup every six months. It’s an essential part of your oral health strategy.
Ready for Your Best Smile?
Implementing these tips consistently is truly the best way to clean your teeth and maintain a vibrant, healthy smile. It requires dedication, but the benefits – less decay, healthy gums, fresh breath, and confidence – are absolutely worth it.
If you have any questions about your at-home oral hygiene routine, or if it’s time for your next professional dental cleaning and dental checkup, don’t hesitate to reach out! My team and I are here to support your journey to a lifetime of beautiful smiles right here in Woodland Hills