Your oral health is essential for your overall well-being. Unfortunately, though, if you’re like most people, you might need to brush up on your oral health skills. We know that there are links between gum disease and cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis and pneumonia. To add to that, there is also a link between oral health and COVID-19 patient outcomes.

Start taking steps to keep your oral health top of mind. Here is what you need to know about dental hygiene tips that can help.

Invest in a tongue scraper

Your mouth can house up to 700 different species of bacteria. While some microbes are beneficial, others can actually lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease. That bacteria can easily accumulate in the crevices of your tongue. This is where a tongue scraper can help. You should use the tongue scraper in addition to brushing and flossing to improve bad breath and remove bacteria. It is more effective than simply brushing your teeth and tongue.

Brush your teeth 

While this one might seem like a no brainer, it bears repeating. We know that plaque begins to form between four and 12 hours after brushing your teeth. With that in mind–and depending on your schedule–you should consider brushing your teeth two to three times a day.

Remember to floss daily

In addition to brushing your teeth at least twice a day, you should also floss at least once a day. This can help to remove food debris between teeth as well as tartar and plaque build up. Whether you floss in the morning or at night, it is important that you make it a habit. 

Make sure to use mouthwash

Try to incorporate mouthwash into your daily routine after you brush and floss. But pay attention to what you use. Conventional mouthwashes may be in abundance at the grocery store, but the alcohol in some of them might actually dry your mouth. As a result, you can experience bad breath. So pay attention to what you are buying for a mouthwash.

And remember to schedule your routine dental cleanings at Pinnacle Peak Family Dentistry twice a year for optimal health and to catch any complications before they worsen.