Your oral hygiene can have a significant impact on your general health, as you've probably heard. For instance, gum disease has been connected to a number of illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, premature labor, and even Alzheimer's. That is why maintaining your teeth’ health is so crucial. However, simply brushing and flossing as directed and going to the dentist regularly might not be enough.

Continue reading to discover the six tips to significantly improve your oral hygiene routine:

1. Tooth brushing
You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. But doing so after every meal is advised, so brushing three times a day helps prevent tartar buildup or bad breath. It's recommended to put off brushing your teeth for around 30 minutes after eating. This is due to the fact that saliva does not immediately neutralize the acidic content of tooth enamel during meals; instead, it takes some time for saliva to do so. Use a brush with gentle bristles that glides easily over the back of the mouth. The tongue cleaner on your toothbrush will be quite helpful for removing bacteria and avoiding bad breath. To get rid of as much plaque as possible, brush correctly. Move the toothbrush back and forth in a circular motion along the front of the teeth while maintaining an angle with the gums. After brushing your teeth, don't forget to brush your tongue. Brushing should last at least 2-3 minutes, giving yourself enough time to thoroughly clean the front and back of your mouth. To guarantee effective tooth brushing and safe bristles, change your toothbrush every three to four months.

2. Flossing
Make sure your floss has the right thickness for the space between your teeth and use it at least once a day, preferably before bed. If used first, it will work better to ensure that the toothbrush cleans the places where food particles were previously present. Learn how to floss properly by using at least 45 cm of the floss.

3. Give up bad habits
Smoking is a damaging habit for your oral health that causes bad breath, discolours your teeth, and raises your risk of getting cancer. Your enamel and gums can also be harmed by brushing too strongly, with harsh brushes, or in a way that is not appropriate for your mouth's needs. Check the bristle hardness and how the brush should be used carefully. If you clench or grind your teeth while you sleep, visit a dentist who can provide you with a remedy, such as a dental splint. You'll take better care of your teeth in addition to getting more rest.

4. Mouthwash
You can use mouthwash as a last step in your oral hygiene routine every time you brush your teeth, as well as in between brushes to maintain fresh breath and keep oral bacteria at bay. Select a mouthwash that treats and strengthens the gums while combating bacterial plaque. The perfect mouthwash doesn’t contain biocides, alcohol, and detergent.

5. Avoid foods and drinks harmful to your teeth
Sugar should be avoided as it is extremely bad for your teeth and triggers tooth decay. Avoid consuming acidic meals and drinks since they erode the tooth enamel and damage teeth, as teeth without enamel are more sensitive to heat and cold. Use a biodegradable straw if you're going to consume an acidic beverage to protect your enamel (and also the planet).

6. Visit your dentist regularly
Get a cleaning procedure at least once every year. You will be able to get rid of the plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone cannot get rid of. Have a dental exam to see if you have any cavities or other issues that would require orthodontic treatment or the usage of bruxism protection. If you notice any anomaly, such as red, swollen, bleeding, sensitive gums, tooth sensitivity, or biting abnormalities, go to the dentist as soon as possible.