Tips for healthy oral hygiene

Healthy oral hygiene practices are important to teach children from a young age. Here are some tips you can provide to parents and patients on how to keep their teeth and mouth healthy.

Most essential is brushing and flossing daily.

To help your patients succeed, you could provide them with the basics of a toothbrush and floss. And if you really want to hit home, you can personalize them with your logo and practice information, so you can serve as a reminder.

Provide examples of food that can help with oral health.

Most people know what foods are not great for oral health but make sure they also know what foods can help. Three examples include:

• Calcium-rich foods such as yogurt, cheese, salmon, almonds, and dark leafy veggies.
• Phosphorus minerals found in eggs, lean meat, dairy, and beans.
• Vitamin C sources such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli, and potatoes.

Limit sugary treats and drinks.

Most people will probably know, but it’s always good to remind them that it’s okay once in a while, but don’t consume them daily.

Take care of toothbrushes.

It’s important to remind patients to switch out their toothbrushes every three months. Once more you could help them at their visit by providing them with a new toothbrush to take home or you could implement a toothbrush exchange program, where patients can bring in a worn toothbrush to trade for a new one any time.

There are many more ways to help promote healthy oral hygiene, but some basics are always a good place to start the conversation. Find more tools to help your patients succeed at TessOralHealth.com or call 1-800-762-1765.

Resource: eatright.org