Oral health is vital to overall physical health—many illnesses like diabetes and heart disease have been linked to gum disease. So, in honor of World Oral Health Day on March 20, we’re covering some easy ways to improve your overall oral health and make your dentist proud.

Add a fluoride mouthwash to your routine

A mouthwash with fluoride can help strengthen your teeth’s enamel and prevent cavities—in addition to the breath-freshening benefits we all know about. The physical act of swishing and spitting helps clear out any lingering food particles and mouthwash can even reduce plaque—but don’t slack on brushing and flossing of course.

Wait to brush after eating or drinking acidic foods or beverages

You might be tempted to run straight to brush your teeth after a meal, but it’s sometimes best to wait. Acidic food and drinks soften tooth enamel for a short time afterward, so brushing directly after consuming them can wear away that temporarily weakened enamel. So, it’s best to wait 30-60 minutes before brushing!

Swap your toothbrush for one with soft bristles

The stiff nylon bristles found on most drugstore toothbrushes are too harsh on teeth and wear down your enamel over time. In fact, you’re probably already brushing too hard, to begin with. Soft bristles are less abrasive but just as effective at cleaning teeth. The bristles on the Boie Toothbrushes are super gentle, antimicrobial, and long-lasting. Each brush comes with a replaceable head that will last at least twice as long as a traditional toothbrush.

Floss before you brush

That’s right, before! Flossing ahead of brushing lets you dislodge food and plaque particles which can then be removed with your toothbrush instead of lingering until your next brushing! Yuck.