Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth, but it’s tricky to always know how to provide proper care to your teeth as an adult. With so many products on the market and conflicting advice from dental professionals, it’s difficult to figure out what works best. However, there are a few basic dental tips that every adult should follow in order to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

More than 4 million people in the U.S. wear braces, 25% being adults, so there are many people concerned with improving their smiles. Here is a look at three of the most important tips to keep in mind for enhancing your dental health.

1. Take Care of the Basics

The first step to good oral hygiene is taking care of the basics. This means brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once daily. These simple habits will go a long way in keeping your mouth healthy. In addition, be sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride in order to protect your teeth from cavities.

However, there is more to brushing and flossing than just the mechanics of it. You also need to brush and floss properly for it to be effective. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions when brushing. Dentists also recommend holding your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums to reach the plaque that can cause gum disease. Use gentle back-and-forth motions when flossing, and avoid sawing the floss against your gums.

If you are still unsure of how to brush or floss the best way, ask your dentist for a demonstration at your next appointment. Besides brushing and flossing, another basic tip is to use mouthwash. Mouthwash can help remove the plaque, and bacteria missed when brushing and flossing. Be sure to choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride to protect your teeth from cavities.

2. Avoid Injuring Your Teeth

This means avoiding habits that can damage your teeth, such as chewing on hard objects or using your teeth as tools. It is also important to wear a mouth guard when taking part in activities that could cause a blow to the face. Mouth guards can help to protect your teeth from being chipped or broken if anything hits you in the mouth.

Besides avoiding habits that can damage your teeth, it is also important to be aware of the foods and drinks that can harm your teeth. Foods high in sugar can contribute to tooth decay, so limit sugary snacks and drinks. Acidic foods and drinks can also erode tooth enamel, so be sure to avoid them as well. If you consume acidic foods or drinks, brush your teeth afterward to remove the acid from your teeth.

Finally, it’s so unfortunate that according to CDC data, 1.8% of California’s over 26 million licensed drivers admit to drunk driving. Doing so puts you at a higher risk of not only hurting your teeth but also injuring yourself or others.

3. Always Seek Treatment Early

If you experience a dental problem, it is important to seek treatment early for your overall health. This is because many dental problems can become worse if a professional doesn’t treat them in a timely manner. For example, a small cavity can turn into a large one if you don’t get it filled. In addition, gingivitis can turn into periodontitis if it is not treated.

If you think you may have a dental problem, the best thing to do is to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They will diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment. Even if it is for cosmetic reasons, it is important to seek treatment for dental problems as soon as possible. Remember, your oral health affects more than just your health. In fact, according to a poll by the University of Illinois Chicago, 29% of low-income individuals and 28% of young adults said their mouth and teeth appearance affected their ability to apply for a job.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your mouth healthy and avoid dental problems. However, it is always best to consult with your dentist if you have questions about your oral health. They will give you the best advice for keeping your mouth healthy.