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Proper dental hygiene is within easy reach. Here’s how to achieve it and why it’s important.

4 Steps to Good Dental Hygiene

Keep the mouth, teeth and gums clean, healthy and disease-free by following these practices.

BRUSH after meals, at least twice a day, for 2 minutes at a time with a fluoride toothpaste. Brushing removes food buildup that can lead to plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can cause tooth decay and cavities. Finish by brushing the tongue as well. If plaque buildup is an issue, use an anti-plaque prebrushing dental rinse beforehand.

FLOSS daily between teeth and along the gumline. Flossing dislodges food particles and debris that can build up and cause plaque, which can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Furthermore, gum disease may play a part in other health issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports an association between oral infections and diabetes, heart disease, stroke and even preterm, low-weight births.

RINSE twice a day with a mouthwash, which can do more than just make your mouth feel clean. Cosmetic mouthwash freshens breath, whitens teeth and has fluoride to help fight cavities. Therapeutic mouth rinses, available over the counter and by prescription, help treat conditions such as gingivitis (a form of gum disease), tooth sensitivity, dry mouth and inflammation. Antiseptic mouth rinses are the most common and kill bacteria associated with bad breath.

VISIT the dentist every six months. This will help you stay on top of oral care and prevent or treat any serious conditions.

What causes bad breath, and is it due to more than what you ate for lunch?

Bacteria feeding on the food left in your mouth, leaving a foul-smelling waste product behind.

Dry mouth, or a lack of saliva, due to salivary gland issues, taking certain medications or breathing through your mouth.

Advanced gum disease, which is often accompanied by a constant bad taste in the mouth.

Certain foods, including garlic, onions, spices and coffee.

Smoking or chewing tobacco.

Mouth infections, including tooth decay, mouth sores and surgical wounds.

A medical condition such as sinus infection, gastric reflux, diabetes, some cancers and kidney or liver disease.

dental hygiene

Q&A

How do I know if I have bad breath?

One quick test—after thoroughly washing and drying the skin, lick the back of your hand or forearm, then sniff it. A sour smell indicates halitosis, or bad breath. Or ask your dentist, who can also identify the underlying cause.

Is flossing really necessary?

Daily flossing is a key part of good oral hygiene. It removes food debris—which can contribute to bad breath—between teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing also helps prevent cavities and gum disease by removing plaque, which hardens over time into tooth- and gum-damaging tartar.

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ORAL CARE BRANDS

What are some of the warning signs of gum disease?

Bleeding gums or gums that are red, swollen or tender. Also gums that have pulled away from teeth. If your permanent teeth are loose or separating or fit together differently when you bite, you may have gum disease.

to maintain teeth and gums, freshen breath and promote good dental hygiene are available at Hy-Vee.

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ORAL CARE PRODUCTS

in 17 different categories, including dental whitening tools and rinses for dry mouth, are available at Hy-Vee.

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Is there really a connection between poor dental hygiene and serious diseases?

Studies have shown that people with poor oral health have higher rates of heart attack or stroke than those with good oral hygiene. Other research indicates a possible connection between poor oral health and both rheumatoid arthritis and the risk of pancreatic cancer.

it all starts with toothpaste

Options in toothpaste have come a long way in the past 30 years, with myriad choices formulated for specific purposes. Toothpastes at Hy-Vee are designed to whiten teeth, fight cavities, remove plaque, freshen breath, restore gums and clean sensitive teeth. Some toothpastes are independently tested for safety and effectiveness by the American Dental Association and come with the ADA Seal of Acceptance.