When you are growing up, you typically learn that brushing your teeth twice a day, and perhaps flossing, is the best way to keep your teeth healthy. It's true that brushing and flossing are important for good oral health, but that's not the whole story. There are a lot of other tips to keep in mind if you want your teeth to remain in tip-top shape.

1. Time your brushing

Many people brush their teeth twice a day, but they rush through the process. Try setting a timer or using the stopwatch function on your phone to ensure you brush for 2 minutes every time. If you want to get really serious, you can set the timer for 30 seconds four times, each time focusing on a different quadrant of your mouth.

2. Use the right mouthwash

Mouthwash can be really helpful for dental hygiene, but make sure you are using the one that's right for you. If you have trouble with gum disease, use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria. If you struggle with cavities and decay, try one fortified with fluoride. If you have dry mouth, use a mouthwash made to maintain oral moisture levels.

3. Make a "c" shape with your floss

Pushing floss between each of your teeth is a good start, but it's not quite enough. If you push the floss down between your teeth and then make a c shape around the teeth on either side. This helps clean bacteria off of the gumline, reducing your risk of gum disease and also cavities between the teeth.

4. Sip water after your meals

If you take a sip of water after your meal, you will be rinsing bacteria and sugar off the surface of your teeth. This will help decrease your risk of cavities, especially if it will be a long time before you are able to brush your teeth. Get into the habit of carrying a water bottle with you so you always have some water to sip. If you have dry mouth, this will also help keep your mouth moist.

5. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush

You might think a hard toothbrush would be the best choice since it helps scrape buildup off of your teeth. However, the hard bristles can do damage to your teeth and actually thin your enamel, making decay more likely.

To learn more about offering your teeth the best care possible, contact your dentist.