


Maintaining excellent oral hygiene between dental visits is crucial for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. While regular dental check-ups are essential, your daily routine plays a significant role in preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
At Beech Lane Dental Care, our experienced dental hygienists provide expert advice to help you maintain a bright, healthy smile. In this blog, we’ll share top tips from our hygienists on how to care for your teeth and gums at home.
Your oral health is closely linked to your overall well-being. Poor dental hygiene can lead to issues such as:
Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
Tooth decay and cavities
Bad breath (halitosis)
Increased risk of heart disease and diabetes
By following the advice of our hygienists, you can reduce your risk of these problems and maintain a fresh, healthy smile.
1. Brush Twice Daily with the Right Technique
Brushing your teeth properly is the foundation of good oral health. Follow these steps for an effective clean:
Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel and prevent decay.
Brush for at least two minutes twice a day.
Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gums.
Use gentle, circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces.
Don’t forget your tongue! Bacteria can build up, causing bad breath.
Tip: Consider using an electric toothbrush for a more thorough clean. Many of our patients at Beech Lane Dental Care find that electric toothbrushes help improve their brushing technique.
2. Floss Daily to Remove Hidden Plaque
Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing removes plaque and food debris from between your teeth, preventing gum disease and cavities.
Use about 18 inches of dental floss, wrapping it around your fingers.
Gently slide the floss between each tooth and curve it into a ‘C’ shape.
Move the floss up and down to clean under the gum line.
If you find flossing tricky, try interdental brushes or a water flosser—our hygienists can recommend the best option for you at your next visit.
3. Rinse with a Fluoride Mouthwash
Using a mouthwash can help reduce bacteria, freshen breath, and strengthen your enamel. Choose an alcohol-free, fluoride mouthwash and use it at a different time from brushing for maximum benefit.
Avoid rinsing your mouth with water immediately after brushing, as this washes away the protective fluoride from your toothpaste.
4. Eat a Tooth-Friendly Diet
Your diet plays a key role in your oral health. Follow these nutrition tips to keep your teeth strong:
Eat calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and almonds for strong teeth.
Crunchy fruits and vegetables (like apples and carrots) help clean teeth naturally.
Limit sugary and acidic foods, which can cause enamel erosion and decay.
Drink plenty of water to wash away food particles and bacteria.
For more advice on protecting your teeth from diet-related damage, visit our Preventative Dentistry page.
5. Don’t Skip Your Routine Hygiene Appointments
Even with excellent home care, professional hygiene appointments are essential to remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup. Our hygienists at Beech Lane Dental Care offer:
Scale and polish treatments to remove plaque and tartar.
Gum health assessments to check for early signs of gum disease.
Personalised oral hygiene advice tailored to your needs.
Regular visits to our dental hygienists ensure your mouth stays in top condition between dentist check-ups. If you haven’t booked your next visit yet, schedule an appointment here.
Protect Your Smile with Beech Lane Dental Care
Maintaining good oral health is a daily commitment, but with the right habits and support from our dental team, you can keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition.
For personalised hygiene advice, professional cleaning, and expert dental care, book an appointment with our hygienists today.
Beech Lane Dental Care – Your Partner in Oral Health!