When it comes to your oral hygiene, not maintaining good dental habits can really wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. While it's important that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, there are other dental habits that are equally important. Take a look at these three habits that will help improve the health of your teeth and gums.

Flossing After Every Meal

If you're not flossing after every meal, you should be. When you floss after every meal, you can get rid of all the food particles that could be hiding between your teeth and below the gum line. If not removed promptly, those particles of food can turn into the perfect breeding ground for plaque, bad breath, and even tooth decay. Try carrying dental floss with you. That way, you can floss after each meal throughout the day. If you absolutely don't have time to floss after each meal, be sure to rinse your mouth out with some fresh water. The water will rinse away food particles, which will help protect your teeth and gums until you can floss.

Protecting Your Toothbrush

If you keep your toothbrush out on the bathroom sink, you should move it. Leaving your toothbrush on the counter can leave it vulnerable to contamination. Each time you flush the toilet, aerosol particles of urine and feces spread through the air. If your toothbrush is on the counter, those aerosol particles could come to rest on the bristles. If that happens, you'll be introducing urine and fecal matter into your mouth each time you brush your teeth. Protect your toothbrush and your dental health by storing your toothbrush in the bathroom cabinet or drawer. It's also a good idea to purchase a new toothbrush at least once every three months.

Seeing Your Dentist Twice a Year

If you're not seeing your dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups, you could be harming your dental and physical health. You might not realize this, but during your dental exam, your dentist will be looking for signs of oral cancer, as well as other issues that could affect your physical health. In addition, your dentist will also provide you with a cleaning that will remove plaque and tartar buildup, which will help prevent cavities and gum disease.

Your teeth and gums are important. Make sure you're taking care of them by making a habit of the three items listed above. For other tips on how to keep your teeth and gums healthy, be sure to talk to a dentist at a clinic like Rupp and Grabowski Family Dentistry.