Having healthy teeth and gums involves different habits. Research has shown and proven that there’s an association between the health of someone’s mouth, and overall health. Oral health problems are a global burden, and without the proper treatment, it can lead to a lot of problems in bot h a physical and mental aspect.
There are some preventative tips though that you can use, and here, we’ll highlight some of the important things you can do in order to keep the gums and teeth healthy and happy.
First, brush regularly, but not aggressively. Brushing twice a day is the most important practice, but brushing may only be effective if you do it in small circular motions, taking care to brush the front, back, and the top of every tooth. The process alone should take about 2-3 minutes, and stop using the sawing motions for this. This can actually help save your gums and enamel as well, and you should sue one that has a soft bristle on this, and replace every 3 months.
Next, make sure you’re using fluoride, since this can help prevent cavities, and it’s a common part of toothpaste and mouthwash too. Some products don’t, and some people don’t use this. But, it’s one of the best things to use, and while it doesn’t fully prevent a person from getting cavities, it’s something you should definitely consider. You can even get it in your water. If you do use a reverse osmosis filter, you’re not getting fluoride, so try to drink water that contains this chemical, or use dental products that contain this in there.
Next, floss once a day. Flossing removes plaque and the bacteria that’s there from between the teeth, where a toothbrush isn’t able to reach. It’ll also prevent bad breath by taking out the debris and food that’s trapped there. Although there’s a lack of long-term studies that show the benefits, it’s something that the ADA and the CDC continue to recommend, and it can help make it better for you when you take care of your mouth.
Next, you should see your dentist on the regular. You should go every 6 or so months for a checkup, and the hygienist can clean the teeth and remove any plaque, along with hardened tartar. The dentist can then check for visual signs of gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, and other issues, and you can use x-rays to check for this. This is great for a lot of people since it can clean up their mouths especially if they’re not taking care of this. It’ll definitely be beneficial for you, and sometimes, you may need to go more, so it is recommended that if it’s needed, you see your dentist.
Next, this is a lifestyle change, but don’t’ smoke. Smoking is super bad for you, since it’ll harm your immune system. You should try to take the steps needed to reduce smoking, and you shouldn’t smoke during or after dental procedures. Plus, smoking causes gum recession, teeth yellowing, and bad breath, so why would you subject yourself to this.
Next, consider mouthwashes. A good mouthwash can benefit you, and you should get ones that’ll help with plaque and gingivitis, and you can get one with essential oils for this. If you don’t’ know what kind of mouthwash to get, you should consult your doctor, and see for yourself what you’re willing to pay for and what is good for your teeth.
Finally, stop having so much sugar. Start to reduce the instance of this, and limit these sugars and starches as much as you can. Candy, desserts, and other processed foods also are good to limit, since you don’t want something with too much added sugar.
Take care of your oral health with these steps, and you’ll see the difference almost immediately.