Taking good care of your teeth helps to prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Poor oral health has also been linked to other health issues including high blood pressure and some types of cancer.
Here are some steps you should take to maintain good oral health and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Brush twice a day
Brushing twice a day will remove bacteria and any food particles that are stuck in between your teeth, leaving your mouth fresh and clean. You should brush your teeth as soon as you wake up in the morning and then again before you go to bed. Use quality fluoride toothpaste and don’t forget that you should also floss once a day.
Experts recommend brushing your teeth for at least two minutes each time. You should consider buying an electric toothbrush, as these are designed to remove more plaque and bacteria than manual brushes. Read this article by the American Dental Association for guidance on the proper brushing technique.
Visit your dentist regularly
Experts generally recommend visiting your dentist for a check-up at least once every 6 months. However, you may need to visit your dentist more often if you have any oral health issues like tooth erosion or gum disease.
Your dentist will give your teeth a deep clean to remove plaque build-up. This will help keep your teeth and gums healthy. They will also be able to spot any dental issues and recommend a course of treatment before you develop anything serious. You can find a quality dentist in your local area by searching for ‘dentists near me’ in Google and reading customer reviews.
Do not use tobacco products
Tobacco products can damage your teeth and cause serious dental issues. According to ameritasinsight.com, “smokers are three to six times more likely to develop gum disease than non-smokers.” Even smokeless tobacco products can attack roots and cause teeth to loosen and fall out. Many people who smoke also develop yellow, stained teeth and bad breath.
Quitting smoking will improve your oral health and enhance your smile. Quitting smoking can be difficult, but there are lots of products on the market that can help you give up. This includes nicotine gum, patches, and sprays.
Limit sugar in your diet
When you eat sugar, your mouth produces acid to break down bacteria and this erodes the protective enamel on your teeth. Eating a diet high in sugar can quickly cause tooth decay and cavities, so it’s best to avoid it when possible.
Here are some tips to limit the effects of sugar on your teeth:
- Eat a healthy, nutritious diet and avoid processed foods.
- Check food labels for ‘hidden sugars.’
- Brush your teeth straight after eating sugary food, for example sweets.
- Limit the number of carbohydrates in your diet as these can turn to sugar in your mouth.
Summary
Following a good oral hygiene routine will keep your teeth and gums healthy and help you avoid dental issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Fortunately, taking care of your teeth is fairly straightforward – follow these simple steps to keep your mouth in good health.
