Tips for Optimal Oral Healthcare
Keeping your teeth and gums in tip-top shape means dedicating yourself to a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene habits. These routines will help prevent dental problems in the future. Here are some important tips to achieve healthier and beautiful teeth:
Make it a daily habit
Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day can help you get a clean bill of health the next time you sit in the dental chair. It is especially important to brush your teeth before going to bed. This simple habit will remove the bacterial plaque, which combines with sugars to form acids that lead to tooth decay by penetrating your tooth enamel and gums.
Flossing is as essential as brushing your teeth. It not only gets the small bits of food that are stuck in between your teeth, but it also stimulates your gums helping to lower inflammation and reduce plaque. For some, flossing can be particularly difficult, however, don’t give up! You can find ready-to-use dental flossers at your drug store, and they can make a big difference.
People often overlook the use of an antiseptic mouthwash because they don’t understand how it can benefit you. Mouthwash reduces the quantity of acid in your mouth, cleans areas on your teeth and gums that are difficult to brush, and gives minerals to the teeth.
Brush properly
Your toothbrush should be the soft bristle type. They are more flexible and can reach the crevices of your teeth but are still gentle on your gums. Be kind to your mouth by brushing in slow circular movements for approximately two minutes. Rough brushing can cause damage to your enamel or irritate your gums. Reaching the inside, top, and outside of each tooth will ensure you are doing a thorough job. Don’t forget to brush the often-neglected tongue as plaque also develops there.
There are a lot of different kinds of toothpaste on the market which include whitening power and flavors. Always make sure the toothpaste you use contains fluoride, which remains a mainstay ingredient in the fight against tooth decay. It works by combating germs and provides a protective barrier for your teeth.
Keeping a healthy diet
Foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can strengthen your tooth enamel and help to keep cavities away. Crunchy fruits and vegetables are edible toothbrushes because they scrape off plaque and bacteria as you chew them, not to mention the healthy fiber they contain. Try to limit sugary and acidic foods. Sugar turns into acid inside the mouth, and this could lead to the erosion of the enamel of your teeth. These acids are often the leading causes of cavities. Caffeine, teas, and acidic fruits also harm the tooth enamel, so rinse with water after consuming these.
Water is still the best drink for your general and oral health. It is recommended to drink water after every meal to get rid of the negative effects on teeth of acidic foods and beverages.
Use your teeth for chewing only
Using your teeth as tools to open packages, cut a thread, open a bottle, or unpicking a knot can be harmful to your teeth by breaking or cracking them.
See your dentist at least twice a year
Even the most dedicated oral hygiene routines need to be combined with regular visits to your dentist. A dentist can look for cavities and other potential health or dental problems while removing accumulated plaque. At SKS Dental Dr. Sabharwal can also discuss additional treatments such as whitening or cosmetic procedures.