Good dental hygiene is key to maintaining a healthy mouth. A lack of a good oral hygiene routine can result in tooth decay and gum disease.
But the good news is that many teeth-related issues can be prevented by following these top 6 dental hygiene tips.
1. Brush twice a day.
This one may sound obvious, but brushing twice a day is the best way to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible.
- Don’t brush too harshly, use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brushing too vigorously can cause sensitive teeth and gum line erosion.
- Brush in small, circular motions. Take care to clean the top and sides of every tooth gently.
2. Floss once a day
Flossing tends to be easily overlooked, but it really is just as important as brushing. If you find floss hard to use, try dental tape or interdental brushes.
3. Use fluoride toothpaste
Flouride is the active ingredient in toothpaste that prevents tooth decay. It’s best to use a toothpaste containing 1,350 to 1,500 parts per million. You can find the fluoride content information on your toothpaste packaging
Avoid drinking water or using mouthwash after using fluoride toothpaste as it can wash away the fluoride.
4. Limit sugary foods and drinks
Sugar causes cavities, the first sign of tooth decay. An obvious choice to cut down on would be sweets and desserts. But think about other food choices such as vegetables and dairy products with no added sugar.
5. Book a hygienist appointment
Consider visiting a dental hygienist in between your dental checkups. A hygienist will remove any hardened buildup of tartar and advise you on how to stop plaque from returning, particularly with crowded teeth.
6. Visit your dentist regularly
To maintain good dental hygiene, experts recommend visiting your dentist every 6 months.
Visit a dental hygienist at Boston House
If you’re looking for dental hygiene advice, book an appointment with the team at Boston House Dental Clinic — your oral health is our priority. You can also read up on 5 things you must know before you visit your dental hygienist.
Why does dental hygiene matter?
A good oral hygiene routine is about more than just fresh breath. Poor oral care has been linked to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. That’s because harmful bacteria in the mouth can travel to other parts of the body through the bloodstream.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy isn’t just about brushing and flossing – it’s about making proactive choices to protect your whole-body health. Regular hygiene appointments and check-ups at Boston House can help you spot signs of gum disease or decay before they turn into bigger problems.
How often should you see a dental hygienist?
While most people think about visiting the dentist every six months, many forget that a dental hygienist plays a vital role in prevention. A hygienist specialises in removing tartar (hardened plaque) and guiding patients on effective cleaning techniques.
If you have braces, dental implants, gum issues, or tend to build up plaque quickly, your hygienist may recommend more frequent visits, every 3 to 4 months, to maintain your oral health. At Boston House Dental Clinic near Liverpool Street, we tailor dental hygiene care to your individual needs.
What can you expect during a hygiene appointment?
Your appointment will begin with a review of your oral health, medical history, and current brushing routine. Then your hygienist will perform a scale and polish, removing plaque and tartar from around your teeth and gum line.
This not only helps prevent gum disease, but also leaves your teeth feeling smoother and looking brighter. After the cleaning, you’ll receive personalised advice on how to improve your at-home routine. This might include switching toothbrushes, using interdental brushes, or modifying your diet.
Don’t underestimate diet’s impact on oral health
When people think of sugar and teeth, they tend to picture sweets and fizzy drinks. But many seemingly healthy foods – like cereal bars, flavoured yoghurts, or dried fruit – contain hidden sugars that can increase your risk of cavities. The frequency of your sugar intake is just as important as the quantity.
Each time you eat sugar, your mouth enters an “acid attack” phase that softens the enamel for around 30 minutes. Snacking frequently throughout the day without brushing in between increases your risk of tooth decay. Sticking to balanced meals and limiting grazing can help reduce the time your teeth are exposed to harmful acids.
Are electric toothbrushes better?
For many patients, yes. An electric toothbrush with a small, round head and oscillating movement often removes more plaque than a manual brush, especially in hard-to-reach areas. It also makes it easier to apply gentle pressure, which helps prevent gum damage.
At Boston House, our hygienists are always happy to demonstrate proper brushing techniques and recommend the right brush for your needs, whether that’s electric or manual.
A word on smoking and oral health
Smoking remains one of the leading risk factors for gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer. It reduces blood flow to the gums and makes it harder for infections to heal. Smokers are also more likely to have tartar build-up and staining.
If you smoke and are concerned about your oral health, your dental hygienist can offer supportive advice and signpost you to local services that help with quitting.
Looking for a dental hygienist in the City of London?
Whether you work near Liverpool Street, Moorgate, or Shoreditch, Boston House Dental Clinic offers expert dental hygiene appointments that fit around your schedule. Our friendly, professional team provides personalised care using the latest techniques and tools to help you keep your smile in great shape.
Don’t wait for problems to develop – taking a proactive approach with the help of a skilled hygienist is one of the best ways to protect your teeth for life.
Book your appointment today
Ready to take the next step? Call 02076284869, book online or email info@bhddc.com to schedule a hygiene appointment at Boston House Dental Clinic. Our central London location makes it easy for professionals and families alike to prioritise their oral health.
