Building on Dental Basics
Simple steps for a healthy mouth.
You have the power to improve your oral health starting today—even if you have dentures, dry mouth, or arthritis. These simple, daily habits can help you enjoy meals, reduce discomfort, and maintain your independence. It’s never too late to start! Even small changes can still improve your comfort and health, and keep you ready to Bite Into Life.
Healthy Habits for Life
Building good dental health habits doesn’t have to be complicated. These techniques will show you exactly how to take care of your oral health so you can enjoy food and smile confidently. Simple, consistent habits make the biggest difference in how you feel.
DENTAL HABITS HOW TO
Brush Right
What you eat and drink directly affects your oral health. Smart food choices can strengthen your teeth, protect your gums, and keep your mouth feeling fresh and comfortable.
Floss Daily
Make it a habit to floss between your teeth every day. If you’re missing some teeth, use a soft toothbrush to lightly massage the gums with flossers to clean the spaces between teeth.
Mouthwash
Rinse your mouth with alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash after brushing and flossing to get rid of harmful bacteria and relieve dry mouth.
Denture Care
Take good care of your dentures and other dental appliances by taking them out at night and cleaning them by soaking in a cup of water with a denture cleansing tablet.
Keep Your Gums Healthy
Don’t forget to brush your gums, tongue, and roof of your mouth, even if you have missing teeth or no teeth.
Drink More Water
Drink lots of water throughout the day. It helps make saliva, which is critical for a healthy mouth and helps wash away food particles naturally.
Bite-Sized Adaptations
Physical challenges don't have to limit your oral care. Whether you're dealing with arthritis, limited mobility, or vision issues, these adaptations and tools can help you maintain excellent oral health while working with your body's needs.
Arthritis-Friendly Tools
Try electric toothbrushes with thick, cushioned handles or an ergonomic toothbrush grip handle for regular brushes. Water flossers or floss picks can replace traditional floss when it's hard to move your fingers.
Set Up Your Space
Keep all dental supplies within easy reach in a consistent, memorable spot. Use a well-lit bathroom mirror at the right height, and consider sitting in a chair with good arm and back support during your routine.
Low-Vision Support
A magnifying mirror can help you see what's happening in your mouth more clearly. Use brightly-colored toothpaste to contrast with white toothbrush bristles.
You’re In Control
You have the power to improve your oral health starting today. Here's how to build habits that stick:
- Start with one small change—even rinsing after meals is progress
- Set phone reminders or pair dental care with something you already do daily
- Keep your supplies visible and within easy reach
- Focus on consistency over perfection—missing a day doesn't mean giving up
- Celebrate small wins like reduced discomfort or fresher breath
Remember: it's never too late to start or improve your routine. Small, daily actions add up to big improvements in how your mouth feels and helps you savor life with confidence.
Make it easy to remember your daily habits!
Download our free printable guide to healthy oral care habits and keep it somewhere handy, like your bathroom mirror or fridge.
It’s never too late to take charge of your oral health.
Start enjoying fresher breath, greater comfort, delicious foods, and more confident smiles today by building these simple routines into your life. Every small step helps you Bite into Life and savor every moment to its fullest.