Beautiful, healthy teeth aren’t just about looks — they’re a big part of your overall health. The good news? Taking care of your teeth doesn’t require expensive treatments or complicated routines. A few simple habits can help keep your smile strong for years.
At AdmiGram.com, we’ve put together an easy guide to proper oral care so you can avoid unnecessary trips to the dentist and teach your kids healthy habits from an early age.
Oral Hygiene: Taking Care of Teeth from an Early Age
When Should You Brush Your Teeth?
© Luiz Filipe Carneiro Machado / Flickr
Dentists recommend brushing twice a day:
In the morning, about 15 minutes before breakfast.
At night, after dinner and before going to bed.
Try not to brush immediately after eating. Foods and drinks that contain acids — such as soda, citrus fruits, or wine — temporarily soften tooth enamel. Brushing right away may wear it down.
The safest option is to wait about an hour after a meal before brushing.
Electric or Manual Toothbrush?
The truth is that both work well.
A manual toothbrush can clean your teeth just as effectively as an electric one if you use the correct technique. Many people simply find electric toothbrushes easier and more convenient.
The best toothbrush is the one you’ll use properly every day.
How to Choose the Right Toothbrush
For most adults, a toothbrush with:
- A small brush head
- Soft bristles
- A comfortable handle
is all you need.
If you use an electric toothbrush, choose one with a rotating or oscillating head.
If you’re unsure which toothbrush is best for you, ask your dentist for personalized advice.
What Toothpaste Should You Use?
© Brandon Shaw / Flickr
Toothpaste helps remove plaque, freshens breath, and protects teeth from decay.
Most dentists recommend toothpaste that contains fluoride, which strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities.
Because fluoride needs vary by age and individual needs, it’s always a good idea to follow your dentist’s recommendations when choosing a toothpaste for yourself or your children.
How to Brush Your Teeth Properly
Follow these simple steps:
- Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gumline.
- Use small, gentle circular motions.
- Clean the outer surfaces of all teeth.
- Repeat on the inner surfaces.
- Brush the chewing surfaces of your molars.
- For the inside of your front teeth, hold the brush vertically and use gentle up-and-down or circular motions.
- Don’t forget your tongue — it helps reduce bacteria and freshens your breath.
Spend at least two minutes brushing.
Why Dental Floss Matters
A toothbrush can’t reach every area between your teeth. That’s where floss comes in.
Regular flossing helps:
- Remove trapped food particles
- Reduce plaque buildup
- Support healthy gums
- Fight bad breath
To floss correctly:
- Use about 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) of floss.
- Gently slide it between your teeth.
- Move it up and down along each tooth surface.
- Repeat for every gap.
Floss at least once a day, preferably before bed.
If traditional floss is difficult to use, interdental brushes can be a great alternative.
And one more thing: skip the toothpicks. They can irritate your gums and may cause bleeding or injury.
Should You Use Mouthwash?
© JC Gellidon / Unsplash
Mouthwash can be a useful addition to your oral-care routine. It helps reach areas that brushing and flossing may miss and can provide extra protection against cavities.
However, avoid using fluoride mouthwash immediately after brushing, since it may wash away the concentrated fluoride left by your toothpaste.
Many mouthwashes also contain alcohol, which can cause dryness. If that’s a concern, choose an alcohol-free formula.
For children, alcohol-free mouthwash is usually the safer option.
image on top: Diana Polekhina / Unsplash
