Brushing your teeth is vital to sustained oral health, but it is not the only tool available for use. Here are some additional steps to consider as you take care of your mouth this holiday season.

Floss: Flossing is brushing’s lifelong companion. It doesn’t matter if you brush before or after you floss, as long as both get done, every day. Clean between your teeth using a single-filament dental floss to reduce fraying and splitting. Floss once a day, for 2-3 minutes, and enjoy the feeling of clean, healthy teeth.

Mouthwash: When deciding on a mouthwash, it is best to consult your dentist. Dr. Michael Lemme is happy to assist you in choosing the best mouthwash for your oral health needs. It will likely be an over-the-counter therapeutic mouthwash that has earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance. This seal ensures that the mouthwash will do what it says it will do, whether that is to freshen breath, kill bacteria, or whiten teeth. Do not give mouthwash to children under younger than 6, nor to people who are in danger of swallowing it.

Chewing Gum: A great way to care for your teeth between brushes is to chew sugarless gum! Gum helps clean your mouth by stimulating glands in your mouth to produce more saliva. Saliva is your body’s first defense against cavities, delivering fortifying substances to the teeth and cleaning harmful substances such as plaque and food particles away from teeth.

For more information on ways you can take care for your teeth this holiday season, call Lemme Dental Studio in Oak Harbor, Washington, at 360-675-3334 . Dr. Michael Lemme and our team are happy to help!