November 8, 2018
TOP 10 TIPS FOR GOOD ORAL HEALTH
Achieving healthy teeth takes a lifetime of care. Even if you’ve been told that you have nice teeth, it’s crucial to take the right steps every day to take care of them and prevent problems. It may surprise you to learn that there’s really not much to it when it comes to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. By following these 10 simple Oral Hygiene Tips, you’ll be well on your way to a lifetime of good oral health.
1. Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth
It’s no secret that the general recommendation is to brush at least twice a day. Still, many of us continue to neglect brushing our teeth at night. But brushing before bed gets rid of the germs and plaque that accumulate throughout the day.
2. Floss thoroughly, every night
Flossing removes debris that’s been caught between your teeth. Flossing your teeth every night before bed not only helps minimize the risk of tooth decay, it keeps your gums healthy, too. Take your time and run the floss up and down the sides of each and every tooth for the best results.
3. Don’t neglect your tongue
Plaque can also build up on your tongue. Not only can this lead to bad mouth odour, but it can lead to other oral health problems. Gently brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
4. Use the right toothbrush.
You want a brush with soft bristles. With the right technique, it should last two to three months. It’s ready to be replaced when you notice bent bristles, but don’t wait that long. Even a straight bristle tip can become blunted instead of rounded and cause injury to the teeth and gums.
5. Make healthy food choices to keep teeth healthy from the inside out.
The nutrients in the food you eat function as the building blocks for your whole body – including your teeth! So be sure to eat lots of fruits and veggies, and minimize your consumption of cavity-causing sugar.
6. Use mouthwash.
Rinse daily with mouthwash to kill the germs that cause cavities and gum disease.
7. Don’t smoke.
Smoking not only leaves ugly yellow stains on your teeth, it also increases your risk of oral cancer and periodontal (gum) disease.
8. Limit sugary and acidic foods
Ultimately, sugar converts into acid in the mouth, which can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids are what lead to cavities. Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee can also wear down tooth enamel. While you don’t necessarily have to avoid such foods altogether, it doesn’t hurt to be mindful.
9. Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
Ready-to-eat foods are convenient, but perhaps not so much when it comes to your teeth. Eating fresh, crunchy produce not only contains more healthy fibre, but it’s also the best choice for your teeth.
10. See your dentist at least twice a year
Your own everyday habits are crucial to your overall oral health. Still, even the most dutiful brushers and flossers need to see a dentist regularly. At minimum, you should see your dentist for cleanings and checkups twice a year. Not only can a dentist remove calculus and look for cavities, but they will also be able to spot potential issues and offer treatment solutions.