If you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, it is necessary for you to have good oral hygiene. It involves simple things and habits, like brushing your teeth at least twice a day and having regular checkups with your dentist. However, you should know that oral hygiene is not only about keeping cavities away and avoiding gum disease. Various studies have shown that there is a connection between a person’s oral health and overall health. In this article, you will be able to read about 7 tips for maintaining your teeth healthy. Let’s take a look:
Source: Allure
Contents
1. Brush regularly, but not too aggressively
You are probably aware that brushing your teeth twice a day is the most important thing to do in order to remove bacteria and plaque. But, brushing will only be effective if you use the correct technique. You should brush your teeth in small circular motions while making sure that you brush the front, top, and back of every tooth. It should take you about 3 to 4 minutes to finish the process. Keep in mind that you should not brush too hard since it can damage your teeth and gums.
2. Use Fluoride
Fluoride comes from material in the soil called fluorine. Various experts believe that it helps people prevent cavities, and it is a usual ingredient in mouthwash and toothpaste.
3. Floss at least once a day
Flossing can help with removing bacteria and plaque stuck between the teeth. It can also prevent bad breath since you will remove the residue of food that is trapped between your teeth. You should gently push the floss all the way to the gumline before going on to the side of the tooth with up and down movements.
Source: Dr. Brian Harding
4. See a Dentist regularly
According to the experts from The Lane DDS Website, it is recommended that you visit your dentist every 6 months. During the checkup, the dentist will clean the teeth and remove any plaque. They will also be able to catch cavities early on, hence, you will be able to avoid long and expensive procedures.
5. Consider using a Mouthwash
Mouthwash is quite beneficial for your oral health. It can help with preventing dental problems, and it will solve a bad breath problem. You might want to ask your dentist, which is the best one to use. Keep in mind that mouthwash is not an alternative to brushing and flossing, but it complements those actions.
Source: Trager Healing Center
6. Limit Food high in sugar and starches
As you already know, sugar can lead to cavities. You should limit your intake of sugar below 10 percent of your daily calories. And if you lower it to 5 percent, you will further reduce the chance of cavities developing.
7. Drink a lot of Water
Beverages such as juice, soda, or other sugary drinks can lead to a higher risk of cavities and illnesses. You should drink water or tea without sugar during the day and only drink sugary beverages during meals.
Conclusion
Having good oral hygiene will keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing and flossing, not smoking, having a healthy diet, and visiting the dentist regularly can all decrease the risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Hence, do not waste any more time and start implementing these tips into your daily oral hygiene process.
