Daily Tips for Good Oral Hygiene
There are many things each day that you can do to keep your teeth healthy and lasting a lifetime. Even with our busy daily schedules, it’s important to carve out some time to take care of our smiles, which impacts overall health too.
Take a look at these quick tips to perform to give your pearly whites the love they deserve:
1. Brush 2X a Day
One of the easiest ways to help lower your risk of oral issues like dental cavities is to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes, as recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA). In most cases, it is best to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to help gently clean food and bacteria from your teeth and gums. The best times to brush are in the morning after breakfast and before going to bed.
2. Perfect your Brushing Technique
How you brush makes a huge difference in your oral health. It is important to thoroughly brush all the surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, underneath the gumline, and in-between the teeth. Use gentle circular strokes across the teeth. Avoid brushing aggressively, as this can wear down your tooth enamel and cause harm to your gums, leading to tooth sensitivity and a whole host of other dental problems. Don’t forget to brush your tongue.
3. Floss Daily
As boring as flossing sounds, it doesn’t change the fact that it’s a necessary part of maintaining oral health. Flossing helps remove debris and dental plaque that are trapped in-between teeth that the toothbrush cannot reach. This is a key step to help prevent developing cavities, which often start in between the teeth.
4. Add Fluoride to your Life
Fluoride is a natural mineral that has been shown by researchers to prevent, and in some cases reverse, tooth decay. Fluoride is found in the water supply of most communities across the United States, and can be beneficial for your teeth to consume when drinking tap water. The ADA also recommends using toothpaste that contains fluoride, which can be found over-the-counter at many stores.
5. Consider mouthwash
Mouthwash can be a great addition to your oral hygiene routine. When shopping for a new mouthwash, aim to buy one that contains fluoride and anti-bacterial properties, as well as the ADA Seal of Acceptance.
6. Eat Tooth-Friendly Foods
A healthy diet plays a crucial role in the health of your teeth. Be sure to add crunchy fruits and vegetables to your daily diet, which contain fiber and help push away food particles from the surfaces of teeth.
7. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods and Beverages
Sugars and acids are harmful to the teeth and increase your risk of developing tooth decay and eroding your tooth enamel. Some of the common culprits that aren’t so tooth-friendly when consumed in excess include alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, sodas, coffee, processed foods, and candy, for instance.
8. Quit Smoking
Do your best to avoid using any tobacco products. Tobacco is linked to many systemic health issues, including oral cancer and severe gum disease, known as periodontal disease. Speak with your dental professionals for resources on quitting.
9. Visit the Dentist
Even while maintaining your own oral health habits each day at home, you still must visit your dental professionals to maintain your overall oral health. It is recommended to visit your dentist for cleanings and exams at least twice a year. Your dentist will diagnose any oral issues and offer the best treatment options to keep your smile healthy. Professional cleanings are necessary to remove bacterial dental plaque that has hardened, also known as dental calculus, which cannot be removed with just tooth brushing.
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/basics/adult-oral-health/tips.html
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/daily-ways-to-protect-your-teeth#7.-Stay-away-from-soda
https://www.healthline.com/health/dental-and-oral-health/best-practices-for-healthy-teeth
