Looking for an oral hygienist or dentist in Lambton Quay? Contact Simply Dental on 0800 123 343 or visit the downtown clinic at 342 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health and confidence, especially for busy professionals. But when you’re grinding, it’s easy to let self-care fall by the wayside.
So without further ado, here are some practical oral hygiene tips that can easily fit into a busy schedule.
Stick to a consistent routine
We say it all the time, but only because it’s so true: establishing an excellent oral hygiene routine and sticking to it is the key to a lifetime of oral health.
Start with brushing your teeth at least twice a day – once in the morning and once before bed – for two minutes each time. Need a quick and easy mouthwash? Here are some great options.
Use the right toothbrush and toothpaste
Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Hard-bristled toothbrushes (sometimes known as ‘smokers’ toothbrushes’) can wear down enamel quickly, so go with a soft brush and brush gently.
Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
Floss daily
Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. What’s the best flossing technique? Find out here.
Keep floss or dental floss picks handy and use them at least once a day.
Opt for time-efficient products
Consider using an electric toothbrush, which can be more effective at removing plaque and stains in a shorter time. Additionally, mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection against bacteria.
Prep a dental care kit
Keep a dental care kit in your bag or at your office. Include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and a travel-sized mouthwash for quick touch-ups during the day.
Mind your diet
Be mindful of your diet, especially if you’re consuming a lot of sugary or acidic foods and beverages. These can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. If you do indulge, rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterwards.
Opt for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Click here to find out more about eating for holistic health.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps rinse away food particles and maintain saliva production, which is essential for oral health.
Chew sugar-free gum
If you can’t brush your teeth after a meal, consider chewing sugar-free gum. Chewing gum increases saliva flow, which can help neutralise acids and clean your mouth.
Limit snacking
Try to reduce frequent snacking, as this exposes your teeth to sugars and acids more often. If you do snack, choose tooth-friendly options like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cheese.
Schedule regular dental check-ups
Even with a busy schedule, don’t skip your dental appointments. Regular professional cleanings and check-ups are essential for catching and addressing any dental issues early on. To make an appointment with Lambton Quay dentist Simply Dental, call 0800 123 343.
Multitasking is good
If you need to read emails or watch a short video, consider doing it while brushing your teeth. This can help ensure you’re spending the recommended two minutes brushing.
Set reminders
A to-do list is a powerful tool. Use alarms or calendar reminders to prompt you to brush, floss, or use mouthwash during the day. This can help reinforce your oral hygiene routine. Similarly, put a reminder on your calendar so you don’t forget to schedule that next check-up.
Prioritise sleep
Getting enough sleep is not only crucial for overall well-being but also for your oral health. A lack of sleep can contribute to gum disease and other oral health problems.
Snoring a problem? It might be sleep apnoea. Find out more here.
Good oral hygiene doesn’t have to be time-consuming. By integrating these tips into your daily routine, you can maintain a healthy smile even amidst a busy schedule.
Dentist in Lambton Quay
Simply Dental are Wellington-based dentists and oral hygienists and experts in oral care for busy professionals. Contact Simply Dental by calling 0800 123 343, or visit the downtown clinic at 342 Lambton Quay, Wellington Central.