By following these oral health tips, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.
1. Brush twice a day, for at least minutes.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bed, for two to four minutes each time. Begin by sweeping your brush at a 45-degree angle. Brush your upper teeth in a downward sweeping motion and your lower teeth in an upward sweeping motion. Brush back and forth only on chewing surfaces.
2. Floss every night.
Flossing your teeth each night before brushing them helps remove debris and reduces your risk of tooth decay. Additionally, it contributes to the health of your gums. Utilize a length of floss up to 18 inches in length to ensure that you have a fresh section of floss for every few teeth. Keep in mind that the floss should be rubbed against the teeth in a forward or backward 'C' shape, with the floss wrapping around each tooth.
3. Rinse with mouthwash daily.
Including mouthwash in your oral hygiene routine can aid in the elimination of germs that can accumulate in your mouth. Because mouthwash can reach areas where toothbrushes and floss cannot, it can aid in the removal of debris from the mouth that can irritate the gum line and contribute to gum disease.
4. Brush or scrape your tongue daily.
Bacteria can remain on the tongue even after brushing your teeth. Brushing or scraping your tongue daily can assist in removing this bacteria and also help to freshen your breath. Use one toothbrush for brushing and a separate one for scraping your tongue.
5. Visit the dentist regularly.
Visit the dentist, at least twice a year, for a dental examination and cleaning. Dentists and hygienists have tools and techniques to clean your teeth far more thoroughly than you can at home. Regular exams also mean your dentist can find any issues that are developing sooner and offer treatment options to prevent them from getting worse.
6. Don’t delay dental treatments.
Many people avoid dental treatment due to fear, while others avoid treatment due to concerns about the cost. The truth is that preventive check-ups and treatments are relatively inexpensive in comparison to the extensive care required for a dental crown or implant. Avoiding necessary treatments may hurt your dental hygiene and end up costing you more in the long run.
7. Make healthy food choices and minimize sugar.
Food affects the entire body, including the teeth. Therefore, consume plenty of fruits and vegetables and limit your sugar consumption, which contributes to cavities. Calcium and vitamin D are necessary for gum and tooth health. While supplements are available, it is preferable to consume milk and fortified orange juice, as well as yogurt, broccoli, cheese, and other dairy products. Vitamin B complex is also necessary for gum and tooth protection against cracking and bleeding.
8. Limit pop, coffee, and alcohol.
Beverages containing additives such as corn syrup and food dye can dull and discolour white teeth. It is preferable to drink beverages such as milk, which helps to strengthen teeth and build stronger enamel, and water, which hydrates the body.
9. Wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
If you play sports or other contact activities, it is recommended to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth and gums from impact or injury. Most dental offices offer custom-made mouth guards for patients to comfortably fit their smiles and keep their teeth safe from damage.
10. Avoid habits that are harmful to your teeth.
Avoid tobacco and other tooth-damaging substances, and work to break habits such as biting your nails or opening bottle caps with your teeth. Consult a dentist if you have a habit of sucking your thumb, lip biting, tongue thrusting, or teeth clenching.