FLOSS DAILY
Only 4 in 10 Americans floss daily and 20 percent never floss.1
Flossing at least
once a day is an essential part of oral health – it helps keep plaque at bay and
can reduce your risk of gum disease and gingivitis.
BRUSH TWICE DAILY
More than 30 percent of Americans skip nighttime brushing.2 Brushing before
bed helps remove a whole day’s worth of food particles, bacteria and plaque.
Skipping this step allows plaque to rest against teeth all night, which, over
time, can be harmful to your gums and tooth enamel. Be sure to use fluoride
toothpaste for decay prevention!
COMMIT TO TWO MINUTES
Your brushing sessions should last for two minutes to ensure you’re reaching
all the nooks and crannies in your mouth – but it can be surprisingly hard to
guess how long 120 seconds is if you’re not looking at a clock. You can keep
this resolution by using the toothbrush timer on Delta Dental’s free mobile app
or using a toothbrush with a built-in timer.
MAKE A DENTAL APPOINTMENT
Seeing a dentist regularly means that any oral health issues you may have
can be identified early, saving you time and money in the long run. Plus,
people who visit the dentist on a regular basis tend to have better oral health
and better overall well-being, so it’s well worth your time.
DRINK MORE WATER
Drinking water is just as beneficial for your mouth as it is for the rest of your
body. Staying hydrated can prevent dry mouth and helps rinse food particles
and bacteria away from teeth. Carrying a refillable water bottle is a convenient
and eco-friendly way to stay well-watered – and if you fill it with tap water,
you’ll also benefit from a fluoride boost if your community fluoridates the
water supply.
