Tips and Best Practices for Oral Hygiene

Tips and Best Practices for Oral Hygiene

Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is essential for overall health, as poor oral health is related to systemic issues such as heart disease and diabetes. For individuals who may find it challenging to maintain a strict oral hygiene routine due to time constraints, medical conditions, or other reasons, these best practices and tips can help bridge the gap.

Core Best Practices for Oral Hygiene

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1. Brush Twice Daily: Use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth for two minutes, twice a day. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and make gentle circular motions to effectively clean teeth and gums. An example of a brushing technique is the Modified Bass Technique (video linked below). For individuals with limited dexterity, an electric toothbrush may be more effective.¹

Tips for caregivers: for some, further modifications may be necessary, such as choosing a brush that has a larger or longer handle or with bristles positioned at a different angle that would help reach all areas of the mouth.²

Modified Bass Brushing Technique Video: Watch Video

2. Floss Daily: Flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between teeth where toothbrushes can’t reach. If traditional flossing is difficult, try floss picks or water flossers.

3. Use Mouthrinse (Mouthwash): Choose a therapeutic mouthrinse that can help control plaque, gingivitis (gum disease), bad breath, and prevent cavities. The American Dental Association (ADA) awards an “ADA Seal of Acceptance” to products that have shown safety and efficacy scientifically. Mouthrinses can be especially useful when brushing or flossing isn’t possible.

Please note that only adults and children over 6 years old should use mouthrinses due to younger children possibly swallowing more liquids inadvertently.³ 

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Additional Tips for Irregular Schedules

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1. Limit Carbohydrate Frequency: Sugary and starchy foods and sugary beverages promote bacterial growth and acid production which leads to tooth decay.¹ When those foods and beverages are consumed, the mouth becomes an acidic environment that can make the protective outer layer of teeth (enamel) soft. It is best to avoid frequent snacking or sugary beverage intake to help the mouth stay in a neutral, non-acidic state. It is also recommended to not brush teeth too soon after consuming food or beverages since it takes time for the mouth to become neutral and non-acidic again.⁴

2. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and neutralize acid. This may help prevent cavities. The ADA recommends gums containing xylitol for added cavity prevention.⁵ Alternatively, there are xylitol-containing mints that can be used instead of chewing gum.

3. Carry Portable Oral Care Tools: Keep travel-sized toothpaste, a toothbrush, floss, or interdental (mini brush for in-between teeth) brushes in your bag for on-the-go use.

Oral Hygiene for Specific Populations

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Pregnant Individuals: Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the risk of gum disease, commonly known as "pregnancy gingivitis". Brushing and flossing daily, as well as routine dental check-ups and cleaning, are critical during pregnancy for both the health of the baby and the pregnant person.⁶ Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated with fluoridated water further support oral health.

Elderly Individuals: Seniors are more prone to dry mouth, gum disease, and tooth loss. Regular dental visits and cleanings, proper hydration, and tools like electric toothbrushes (when applicable) can enhance oral care for elderly adults.

Children and Toddlers: Begin oral hygiene routines as soon as the baby's first tooth emerges.⁷ Use a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. For children under 3 years old, use a rice-sized amount of toothpaste; for children over 3 years old, use a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.^7,8 Supervise and/or help with brushing until they can do it effectively on their own (typically around age 8).⁷

General Health Connections

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Oral hygiene impacts overall health. According to the CDC, untreated gum disease can worsen chronic conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.⁹ Protecting your oral health through consistent practices helps safeguard your entire body.

When to See a Dental Provider

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Schedule regular dental check-ups every six months, or more frequently if you have underlying conditions. Inform your dental provider about changes in your health, medications, or oral discomfort. Your dental provider will work with you on a customized plan to take care of your oral and overall health.

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