Healthy teeth and gums make it easy for you to eat and speak. That is why you have a responsibility to take good care of your oral health and prevent common conditions such as gingivitis, gum disease, oral cancer and tooth decay. It is quite easy! Here are a few routine tips to keep your teeth healthy.
Floss your teeth
Flossing your teeth helps is one way to remove those small pieces of food that get stuck in the gaps and reduce plaque buildup. If you are a parent, you can start flossing when your child is 2, albeit under the guidance of a child’s dentist.
Hydrate often
Dry mouth occurs when your mouth does not produce enough saliva, making it hard to eat, taste food or spit. Having a dry mouth also makes it easier to contract fungal infections, cavities and tooth decay. To avoid having a dry mouth, ensure you drink plenty of water. Supplement it with a water-rich diet.
Brush your teeth before bed
Dental plaque accumulates in your teeth during the day and contains microscopic bacteria that produce an acid that eats through your enamel. Plaque also causes gum disease and affects the jaw bone. For this reason, it would be best if you brushed your teeth twice a day, in the morning after you wake up and at night before you retire to bed.
Go for regular checkups
Even as you adopt healthy habits to keep your teeth in good shape, you should see your dentist at least once a year. Scheduling regular checkups will enable your dentist to spot potential issues early on and help you deep clean your teeth and fill cavities. It would be best if you have a reputable emergency dentist on your contact list in case of any severe issues. That said, don’t wait for issues to crop up to visit a dentist. Do it regularly.
Use mouthwash
Dentists recommend using a mouthwash containing fluoride to supplement the fluoride found in toothpaste. Swishing a cap full of mouthwash will reach the areas your toothbrush cannot clean and reduce the levels of acid in your mouth.
Eat a balanced diet
Ensure you avoid processed and sugary foods that lead to the erosion of the enamel and eventually cause you to get cavities. It would be best if you ate whole foods, fruits and vegetables that contain healthy fibres. Drink plenty of water to flush out all harmful bacteria.
Take your time when brushing
Ensure you brush all sides of your teeth as you move your toothbrush in a circular motion to remove plaque. Please do not forget to brush your tongue, as this is a prime spot for plaque to build up and lead to bad breath. Your toothpaste should contain fluoride, which works by integrating with your tooth enamel to form a hard, protective coating and protects your teeth from sugars, cavities and plaque.
Avoid tobacco and drink alcohol in moderation
Smoking cigarettes is known to increase your chances of getting oral cancer. So, try to quit smoking. Well, it is easier said than done. Go for a gradual approach to reduce your tobacco intake. Don’t hesitate to seek help in quitting. Also, try to avoid consumption of too much alcohol. Try to take drinks in moderation.
Wrapping up
Taking care of your teeth is the best way to avoid common oral health issues. You can do a lot on your own but ensure you also go for routine checkups as well.
