Your overall well-being is highly dependent on sound oral health. No one can afford to neglect the mouth, as it could lead to dental problems ranging from gum disease to cavities. But by following the best practices, anyone can have a pearl-white and healthy smile. This article shares eight tips to introduce into your daily routine for perfect oral health.
Brush and floss regularly
Consider flossing twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening before bedtime. Regular flossing eliminates bacteria-causing food particles between your teeth. Cavities and gum inflammation can all be managed through these simple hygienic practices.
You also need to invest in the right toothbrush. Soft-bristle options are the best choice since they seamlessly clean your teeth without causing any abrasion. Sometimes, too much friction over time can wear out the enamel.
Rinse with mouthwash
Mouthwash contains fluoride or antimicrobial ingredients, which are effective in dealing with bacteria and plaque. They can reach areas in the mouth where flossing and brushing cannot. This additional protection also has an impact on the freshness of your breath. Select brands that dentists recommend, or check the ones with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. This assures you that you are using something effective and of the highest quality. Remember that some mouthwashes are formulated to target specific concerns, like gingivitis or dry mouth, so choose one that aligns with your unique needs.
Don’t forget your tongue
It is essential to clean your tongue regularly, as it can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to bad breath and various other oral health issues. You can use a tongue scraper or a brush to effectively remove bacteria and improve your breath. Ensure that you clean not only the top but also the sides of your tongue. Consider oil pulling, which involves swishing coconut oil in your mouth for a few minutes to aid in removing impurities.
Regular dental check-ups
Check-ups at a dental office allow for an evaluation of the state of your oral health, making it easy to know when there are emerging problems. Dentists can also do professional cleanings, which are excellent for dealing with plaque or tartar. In most cases, biannual check-ups are highly recommended, as they act proactively to deal with problems.
Watch your diet
Your diet directly affects the growth and development of your teeth and gums. Consume meals that promote your dental health, such as calcium-rich foods. Dairy products are good examples, as they strengthen the enamel of your teeth.
Limiting sugary and acidic foods is crucial. Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your mouth, leading to tooth decay. Acidic foods can erode tooth enamel. Consider healthier alternatives like fruit or sugar-free gum when you have a sweet tooth.
Protect your teeth
If you’re active in sports or other physical activities, investing in protective gear is a wise decision. A mouthguard can be a perfect choice for anyone into contact sports as it protects both the gums and teeth. Your jaws will also benefit, as it’s difficult for jaw joint distortion to occur when the teeth are intact.
Additionally, if you grind your teeth, a condition known as bruxism, a nightguard can protect your teeth from excessive wear and prevent jaw pain. Be careful when biting and chewing hard foods such as ice or popcorn kernels. These can cause cracked or chipped teeth, leading to serious oral health issues.
Avoid tobacco and limit Alcohol Intake
Smoking can cause tooth decay, discoloration, and even oral cancer. Quitting is a good idea, as it will slowly reverse the effects. Alcohol often results in dry mouth and, at the same time, propels the teeth towards tooth decay. Speak with addiction recovery experts who will assist you in kicking out alcohol dependency, as this will also benefit your overall health.
Stay hydrated
Drinking water helps in rinsing away the bacteria and food particles that may have formed around the teeth. This helps in getting rid of tooth decay. The water also greatly benefits saliva production by making the process regular. The saliva neutralises the acids and keeps a dry mouth at bay. Drinking water can be beneficial when done after meals or snacks. In addition to that, you can enhance your diet by consuming juicy fruits like watermelons.
Endnote
A healthy lifestyle cannot be complete without sound oral health. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make your teeth and gums healthy. From simple hygienic practices to dental visits, you can choose what to incorporate into your daily routine. This will make your smile incredible, hence boosting your confidence.
David Radar, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
