Oral Hygiene Tips for a Healthier Smile
Simple, dentist-approved habits to keep your teeth strong, your gums healthy, and your breath fresh—brought to you by Blacklick Creek Dental in Reynoldsburg, Ohio.
Preventive dentistry • Family dentistry • Patient education
1) Brush the Right Way (2× a Day for 2 Minutes)
Use a soft-bristled manual or electric toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Angle the bristles 45° toward the gumline and brush in short, gentle strokes—fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget your tongue to help reduce odor-causing bacteria.
2) Don’t Skip Flossing (Once Daily)
Flossing removes plaque and food particles between teeth where brushes can’t reach. Curve the floss around each tooth in a “C” shape and glide it gently under the gumline. If traditional floss is tricky, try floss picks, interdental brushes, or a water flosser.
3) Fluoride Fortifies Enamel
Fluoride strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities. Choose a fluoride toothpaste (look for the ADA Seal) and consider an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthrinse. Ask us about professional fluoride treatments during your cleaning if you’re cavity-prone.
4) Make Smart Food & Drink Choices
- Limit sugar & frequent snacking: Every “sugar hit” feeds bacteria that produce enamel-eroding acids.
- Rinse after acids: Coffee, soda, sports drinks, citrus, and vinegar can soften enamel—rinse with water and wait 30 minutes before brushing.
- Choose tooth-friendly foods: Cheese, leafy greens, nuts, fibrous fruits/veggies, and fluoridated water support a healthy mouth.
5) Use Mouthwash Wisely
An alcohol-free, antibacterial rinse can reduce plaque and freshen breath. Use as directed—typically after brushing and flossing. Mouthwash is helpful, but it won’t replace the basics.
6) Keep Regular Checkups in Reynoldsburg
Professional cleanings remove hardened tartar and catch early signs of decay and gum disease. Most patients do well with visits every six months, but we’ll personalize your plan. If you’re in or near Reynoldsburg, we’d love to care for your smile.
7) Tips for Kids & Teens
- Start early: First dental visit by age one or when the first tooth appears.
- Pea-size paste: Use a rice-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste for toddlers; a pea-sized amount after age 3.
- Sports guards: Custom mouthguards help prevent chipped or knocked-out teeth.
8) Signs It’s Time to Call a Dentist
Contact us if you notice bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, persistent bad breath, jaw pain, loose teeth, or sores that don’t heal in two weeks. Early care is simpler, more comfortable, and more affordable.
Related Services at Blacklick Creek Dental
Oral Hygiene FAQs
How often should I replace my toothbrush?
Every 3–4 months, sooner if bristles fray or after illness.
Is an electric toothbrush better?
Many patients get a more consistent clean with electric brushes thanks to built-in timers and pressure sensors. We’re happy to recommend models.
What toothpaste should I use?
Choose a fluoride toothpaste with the ADA Seal. For sensitivity or whitening, ask us for a personalized recommendation.