If oral hygiene is not maintained, then diseases like tooth decay can occur. Also, it is now known that there is a link between oral health and diseases such as endocarditis, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Caring for your teeth and gums requires effort, as well as appointments with your dentist. This article will give you some ideas on how you can take good care of your oral health.
1. Brushing
Cleaning your teeth and gums correctly is vital to help reduce plaque and food particle buildup that cause oral cavities and other gum illnesses. For optimum oral health, it is advised that you brush at least twice a day, with each session taking not more than two minutes. Make sure you clean all the aspects of the teeth, including outer, inner, and biting surfaces. It is recommended to change your toothbrush every three to four months or when the bristles are worn out. A soft or extra-soft toothbrush and hydroxyapatite toothpaste can be used to clean the teeth without harming the gums. Be gentle while brushing your teeth.
2. Flossing
While brushing allows you to clean the teeth’ surface, flossing is essential for cleaning the spaces between the teeth and slightly at the gum line where most plaque is located. Daily flossing can be effective in cleaning the areas between the teeth and gums, which, if not cleaned, can lead to tooth decay and gum diseases. Use approximately a few inches of ordinary floss. Slide it from one tooth to the other while holding it between the middle of the two adjacent teeth and bend it at the base of the teeth.
3. Mouthwash
Mouthwashes that are approved by the American Dental Association have antimicrobial components that can combat plaque. Some mouthwashes include oil, alcohol, and fluoride. You can use mouthwash after using teeth cleaner and dental floss to eliminate any germs that might not be removed. Rinse the mouth around with the mouthwash for time stated on the packet, which is usually between thirty seconds and one minute. Choose a fluoride mouthwash to enhance the level of protection against cavities. It is important to know that mouthwash cannot replace brushing and flossing, but they are a useful addition to your oral hygiene regimen.
4. Professional Cleanings
Brushing and flossing at home sometimes does not remove all the plaque and tartar that are present in complex areas of the mouth. Check-ups with a dentist can help you to professionally clean your teeth both on the surface and around the gum line. Dentists also have some special instruments, such as scrapers and polishers, which are used to clean between the teeth and around the gum line to reduce plaque and stain buildup. Professional cleaning and check-ups should occur at least twice each year to identify issues before they become severe and more challenging to manage.
5. Avoid Harmful Habits
Certain habits can cause a loss of oral health even when the hygiene habits are good. Tobacco products cause harm by putting you at a higher risk of developing gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Smoking also leads to discoloration of the teeth and halitosis, commonly referred to as bad breath, along with other gum diseases. Other behaviors that you should avoid include chewing on pens, biting nails, and using teeth to open things. These habits can lead to the wearing down of tooth enamel, making teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity. Seek help if you experience mouth sores or inflammation, as these may indicate emerging dental problems.
Conclusion
Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing, flossing, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding bad habits like smoking, alcohol, and excessive sugar intake will help you prevent oral diseases. Combining that with the biannual professional check-ups can help you deal with minor issues before they turn into extensive treatments. Spending just a few minutes each day on your teeth and gums will help you a lot. By managing your oral health, you maintain your smile and your capacity to chew food for life.
