Best Practices for Adult Oral Health

As adults, we are super busy with work, school, activities, household tasks, children, and …life… With so many things going on, we need to take care of ourselves too. More specifically, our teeth! Here are some tips to keep your teeth healthy and happy.

1. Brush twice day 

Brush your teeth at least twice a day for at least two minutes each time using gentle pressure. Choose a toothpaste that targets your needs. Do you have enamel wear or erosion? Try Grin Strengthening toothpaste to help remineralized weakened enamel. Brush in small circles angling your toothbrush slightly under your gums, and don’t brush too hard. Scrubbing too hard will cause gum recession and enamel erosion. Make sure your toothbrush has soft bristles, and if the bristles are worn out, get a new one! We love Grin Natural’s charcoal toothbrush because the bristles are super soft, dense, and effective (plus, they come in pretty unique colors)! Also, wait at least 30 minutes after eating before brushing to let the acids from the foods dissolve. You don’t want to be brushing acid all over your teeth!

2. Floss once a day

Floss your teeth once a day with string floss or flossers - this removes plaque and food between your teeth. With string floss, use a new clean section for each tooth. Slide the floss in a “C shape” up and down between the teeth, going below the gum line on both sides. Make sure to hug the floss along with each tooth. Flossers are also effective at removing plaque between your teeth; wipe the floss clean after each tooth. You can also use the flosser for a day or two or until it gets too worn out! Are you wondering which type of floss is better? Either type of floss is fine! Just as long as you are using the correct flossing technique.

3. Use a mouthwash daily 

After brushing and flossing, consider using mouthwash. Mouthwash containing fluoride helps fight cavities, and mouthwash with chlorhexidine help reduce bad breath and gum disease. Opt for a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol which can cause dry mouth.

4. Diet and nutrition 

Aim to have a diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, fiber, dairy, and protein sources. Crunchy foods such as apples, carrots, and kale are great for your teeth because eating them stimulates saliva, which can help wash away sugars on teeth. The calcium in dairy products helps maintain strong teeth to protect against cavities. Try to avoid foods with lots of added sugar and processed foods. Also, avoid snacking throughout the day, increasing the time acid from the foods will contact your teeth. Try eating three meals and two snacks a day. 

5. Stay hydrated with water

Cook with tap water and drink tap water! Water is wonderful since it helps keep teeth strong and fight cavities. When eating sweets, drink some water to help wash away sugars and bacteria.

6. Visit your Dentist

Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can diagnose and treat dental problems before they get serious. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good dental health.

Taking care of your teeth should be part of your daily routine, and as we say in dentistry, “brush the teeth that you want to keep!” A huge part of oral health is prevention, so try out these tips to help prevent any dental problems and maintain a bright, healthy smile. 

About the Author

Aside from being a phenomenal Dentist, Erica is a mom to an energetic and extremely curious toddler. She created @mama.molar.dmd because she wants to educate moms and dads about oral health for their little ones. She loves products that are good for your children's growing bodies as well as the environment that they will be living in for the future to come.

Photo credit: Alissa@alissaachavez and Maddi Bazzocco