At Nathanson Dental, we provide a full range of services, from managing gum disease and TMD in Hunt Valley MD to cosmetic improvements like veneers and whitening. But even the best dental work depends on what you do at home every day. Your daily brushing and flossing habits form the true foundation that keeps your teeth and gums healthy and helps you avoid more complex problems down the road.

Here’s how to build a solid home care routine that works.

Brush the Right Way — Not Just Twice a Day

Most people know to brush morning and night, but doing it properly matters just as much. Follow these tips:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Hard bristles can wear away enamel and irritate your gums, contributing to recession.
• Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline: Use gentle circular motions, not hard back-and-forth scrubbing.
• Brush for a full two minutes: Many people only brush for about 30 seconds, missing important areas.
• Clean your tongue: It harbors bacteria that can lead to bad breath and impact overall oral health.

If you’ve had cosmetic or restorative work like veneers or dental crowns in Hunt Valley MD, gentle brushing helps keep these areas looking great and functioning properly.

Make Flossing a Non-Negotiable Part of Your Routine

Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing removes plaque and trapped food between teeth and under the gumline, where your toothbrush can’t reach.

If traditional floss feels tricky, try:

• Floss picks or small interdental brushes
• A water flosser, especially helpful if you have bridges or tight spaces

We’re always glad to demonstrate effective techniques during your visit.

Choose Rinses That Strengthen and Protect

• Fluoride rinses: Help reinforce enamel and prevent new cavities.
• Antibacterial mouthwashes: Lower bacteria under the gums, often recommended if you’re managing early gum disease or after a deep cleaning.

We’ll tailor recommendations to your needs, whether you’re protecting cosmetic work or managing gum health.

Eat and Drink for Better Oral Health

What you consume has a big impact on your mouth. Smart habits include:

• Limiting sugary snacks and sodas that fuel bacteria creating acids
• Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables that help naturally clean teeth
• Drinking plenty of water to rinse away particles and keep saliva flowing

These choices protect you from future decay and keep treatments like crowns or veneers in top shape.

Look for Early Signs Before They Escalate

Watch for small changes such as:

• Gums that bleed easily or seem swollen
• New sensitivity to hot or cold
• Persistent bad breath
• Teeth that shift or feel slightly loose

Spotting these early often means simpler, less invasive care.

Stay Consistent with Professional Cleanings and Exams

Even the best brushing and flossing can’t remove hardened tartar. Routine visits allow us to:

• Clean areas you can’t reach at home
• Catch cavities while they’re still small
• Monitor restorations like crowns, bridges, and manage gum health

Whether you’re coming in for preventive care, cosmetic treatments, or TMD management in Hunt Valley MD, regular visits keep your mouth healthier long-term.

Good Oral Hygiene Protects More Than Just Teeth

Keeping your mouth healthy lowers inflammation, which in turn reduces risks linked to heart disease, diabetes, and even respiratory conditions.

Build Better Habits with Nathanson Dental

Whether you’re maintaining new veneers, managing gum health, or just trying to keep your family’s smiles bright, our team is here to help. We’ll give you personalized, practical tips so your daily routine protects your teeth, gums, and overall health for years to come.