Dentist in Fort Mill, SC: Building an Oral Hygiene Routine

How to Build the Best Oral Hygiene Routine

Core Dentistry • February 21, 2022

Haven't visited your dentist in Fort Mill SC in a while? You're not unlike close to 40 percent of Americans who haven't been inside of a dental office for at least a year.

Not going to the dentist and not taking appropriate preventative care measures sort of go hand-in-hand. So, the first thing you need to do is set an appointment for a cleaning as soon as possible. But after that, it's time to get serious about your routine. In this article, we look at how you can make time for a strong oral hygiene game, and what that actually looks like. Let's begin!

Set Aside Time For It

Treat developing an oral hygiene routine as a priority. That means prioritizing your time for it.

Just how much time do you need? Plan to brush for four minutes at a time. Try to brush after every major meal.

Next, factor in flossing (five to 10 minutes per session) and mouthwash (30-60 seconds). All told, you'll need about 30-45 minutes broken up throughout the course of the day.

Understand Repercussions

Thirty to 45 minutes isn't much when you're breaking it up over three sessions. Everyone can find that amount of time for things that matter.

And oral hygiene should matter! If it doesn't, then you really need to understand the repercussions of not doing it. These can include:

Expensive dental procedures
Pain and discomfort
Passing along poor dental hygiene practices to your children
The possibility for long-term illnesses to develop

Dental care is healthcare. It needs to be prioritized.

Commit To The Scheduling

All it takes to get started is a little scheduling. You've probably already got some time set aside for it during your morning and bedtime routines.

Consider keeping dental care supplies at your office for a quick trip to the restroom during lunch or one of your breaks. With a little scheduling and planning, you won't even notice the intrusion.

Get Started

Don't worry if you're not the best flosser or you're unsettled on a toothbrush, toothpaste, or mouthwash. Just start where you are.

Maybe you're not brushing or rinsing long enough. Perhaps you're just spot-flossing in the beginning. Anything you can do to get familiar with the processes will make it go that much smoother down the line.

Speak To Your Dentist

Your dentist in Fort Mill SC can offer suggestions for how to floss, strong brushing techniques, and non-alcoholic mouthwashes if you'd prefer. Come to your cleaning equipped with questions.

Get Better

Take what you've learned from getting started and from what your dentist has shared. Commit to incorporating that knowledge and experience into your future routines. In other words, strive to get better!

Otherwise, you could fall back into those old routines (or no routines at all). And that will not bode well for your dental health moving forward.

So What Does The Best Oral Hygiene Routine Look Like?

In the first section, we touched on positive oral hygiene practices and how to make time for them. In this portion, we'll be going further into the practices themselves. What does the best oral hygiene routine include?

Floss Sandwiches

Metaphorical sandwiches, of course! What we mean by a floss sandwich is to floss before you brush and floss afterward. (Sadly, 58 percent of people don't floss at all!) This is good dental hygiene because it allows you to break up plaque and tartar from between the teeth before you brush. Next, brush. Finally, go back through one more time with a new strand of floss to get anything that might be left over.

Brushing After Every Meal

It may not be practical to brush every time you eat something. That's especially true when you're eating five to six times per day as some diets require. But you will typically have two to three "anchor" meals throughout the day. Make sure you follow these up by brushing for two to four minutes.

Using Mouthwash

This aspect of dental care isn't something that has to be done every time you brush. You can save it for one or two times per day if you'd like. But there are all kinds of mouthwashes out there (both with and without alcohol) that can zap the harmful bacteria from your mouth. Swish it around in your mouth for at least 30 seconds per session. Rinse with water. The more you do it, the healthier your mouth's ecosystem will be.

Staying Away From Added Sugars

Those miniature chocolates on your co-worker's desk have got to go. Try to eliminate as many added sugars from your diet as you can. These affix to the teeth and in between them. They also dry out your mouth and create a hospitable environment for harmful bacteria, leading to unpleasant outcomes like tooth decay and gingivitis (bleeding gums).

Cut Out Smoking

Smoking further weakens enamel and expedites tooth decay. It can also lead to a number of mouth and body cancers that can prove lethal in time. The good news is that the effects of smoking can be reversed to a certain point. However, you have to commit to quitting. Seek help however you can. Many patches, gums, and other products on the market will help you wean yourself off, but you have to first be willing.

Limit Alcohol Intake

Alcohol isn't just bad for your "regular" health, causing things like cirrhosis, alcoholism, and poor decision-making. It's also bad for your oral health. Alcohol is very high in added sugars. That's probably why you wake up the next morning feeling like you don't have any saliva left in your mouth. This dry environment is a breeding ground for bacteria. Like smoking, it will lead to dental and other diseases, discolor the teeth, and weaken gums.

Remember That Your Dentist In Fort Mill SC Is Here To Help

We hope by now that you understand what the best oral hygiene routine looks like and how to implement it. It's all about educating yourself as to the practices and making the time (that's already there) in your daily schedule.

Need any more help than this? Talk to your dentist in Fort Mill SC. Core Dentistry is a highly trained and credentialed practice that can provide help with everything from preventative care to treatments for gum disease, fillings, crowns and bridges, root canals, teeth whitening, and various dental emergencies.

Dr. Liz has provided quality care throughout the US since 2013, and she is ready to help you with your dental needs. Make an appointment today!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

How Teeth Whitening Can Brighten Your Smile for Special Occasions

By Core Dentistry • February 26, 2025

It's an unfortunate fact that all kinds of factors can lead to unsightly yellow teeth . Are you wondering what can be done to quickly upgrade your smile? Teeth whitening services can be the perfect solution. Whether it's for a wedding, graduation, or an important work event, a bright smile can leave a great impression. With the right teeth whitening solutions, you can achieve a stunning smile makeover just in time for your special occasion. Read on to learn more about it. The Vital Importance of a Bright Smile A whiter smile can make a vast difference in how people perceive you. White teeth are often associated with the following: Good health Confidence Success When you feel good about your smile, you naturally exude more self-confidence. This can help in social settings, professional environments, and even during photographs that capture your special moments. Cosmetic dental services , such as dental whitening treatments, can give you the smile you have always wanted. A white smile is more than just a surface-level improvement; it can also have great psychological benefits. Many people feel more outgoing and sociable when they aren't self-conscious about their teeth. Smiling more often can: Improve mood Reduce stress Make you appear more approachable A great smile can positively impact personal relationships , career opportunities, and first impressions, making it a valuable asset in various aspects of life. How Teeth Whitening Works Teeth whitening is a simple yet amazing way to get rid of stains and discoloration. Over time, certain foods, drinks, and habits can cause teeth to lose their brightness. Common culprits include: Coffee Tea Red wine Tobacco use Teeth whitening solutions help to lift these stains, leaving your teeth several shades whiter. While over-the-counter products may provide some improvement, they often take weeks to show any effect. Professional dental whitening treatments, like those offered at Core Dentistry , use stronger whitening agents that deliver faster and longer-lasting results. There are several kinds of teeth whitening treatments to choose from, including: In-office whitening Take-home whitening kits Over-the-counter products In-office treatments are done by dental experts and often provide the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time. Take-home kits, on the other hand, involve using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel, allowing patients to whiten their teeth at their own pace. Over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels can offer mild improvements but are generally not as effective as professional treatments. Undeniable Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening One of the most phenomenal benefits of professional teeth whitening is the speed of results. In-office whitening treatments can make your teeth several shades lighter in just one visit. Another advantage is the long-lasting effects. Professional whitening lasts much longer compared to at-home kits, especially when you maintain good oral hygiene. Safety is another major benefit, as a trained dentist ensures that your gums and teeth are protected during the procedure. Plus, professional whitening allows for a customized treatment plan . Your dentist can fine-tune the strength of the whitening agent to suit your needs. Remember, a whiter smile can elevate your confidence like nothing else. It makes you feel more attractive and self-assured in social and professional settings. Beyond aesthetics, professional whitening can also encourage better oral hygiene. When people invest in their smiles, they tend to take better care of their teeth by brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups. This can lead to improved overarching dental health, reducing the risk of: Cavities Gum disease Other oral issues Additionally, professional whitening can remove stubborn stains that regular brushing and over-the-counter products may not be able to tackle. When to Whiten Your Teeth Before a Special Occasion Timing is important when planning your smile makeover. If you have an upcoming event, it is best to schedule your teeth whitening treatment at least one to two weeks in advance. This allows any minor sensitivity to subside and ensures you get the best results. If you opt for at-home whitening, you need to give yourself more time as it takes longer to see noticeable changes. Planning ahead ensures your smile looks its best for your special day. It is also important to consider any dental work you may need before whitening your teeth. Do you have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues? If so, these should be addressed before undergoing a whitening treatment. Your dentist can help assess your teeth and provide the best course of action to ensure that you achieve optimal results. Also, if you have dental restorations like crowns or fillings, it's important to note that these materials respond differently to the treatment. Maintaining Your White Smile for the Long Haul After your teeth whitening treatment, you have to take care of your teeth if you want them to retain their brightness. Avoiding foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces can help preserve your results. Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a dependable toothpaste . Consistent dental check-ups and cleanings also help support your white smile. Using a straw when drinking dark beverages can reduce contact with your teeth, thereby shrinking the chances of staining. Another tip for maintaining your white smile is to rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages. This helps prevent pigments from settling into the enamel. You may also consider using a whitening mouthwash to enhance your results. If you notice that your teeth are beginning to stain again over time, touch-up treatments may be recommended by your dentist to keep your smile bright. Keeping up with professional cleanings and avoiding habits like smoking can also contribute to long-lasting results. It's Time to Take Advantage of Dependable Teeth Whitening Services With proper teeth whitening services , you can have an amazing smile in no time. Core Dentistry provides high-quality cosmetic dental services to help you get the smile you've always wanted. Their dental whitening treatments are safe, effective, and customized. Our team members not only have medical degrees, but they're also members of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Clear Aligners, and more. Don't wait to schedule a teeth whitening appointment with Core Dentistry today.

A woman is sitting in a dental chair looking at her teeth in a mirror.

☎ (803) 681-6600

✧ 485 Tom Hall St Suite 106, Fort Mill, SC 29715