A good oral hygiene routine goes beyond brushing and flossing; there is more to oral health than cavities and gum disease. Studies suggest a link between a person’s oral and general health. Gum issues or tooth decay can result in pain, low self-esteem, and loss of teeth without proper care and treatment. These problems consequently lead to speech impairment, malnutrition, and other challenges that impact an individual’s personal, academic, or professional life.
The good news is that these problems can be prevented in adults with proper dental care and good oral health tips. Listed below are our top tips for maintaining a healthy mouth.
Brush Correctly
Brushing the wrong way is just as bad as not brushing at all. Take your time (2 minutes); move the brush in gentle, circular motions to remove the plaque. Start with the front to the back and top of each tooth. Avoid back-and-forth motions, and don’t be too aggressive. Unremoved plaque can harden over time, resulting in calculus buildup and gum disease. Remember to replace your old toothbrush with a new one once every 3 months or whenever the ends look worn out, whichever happens first.
Don’t Forget your Tongue
Your tongue acts like a sponge for bacterial buildup. Not only does this result in bad breath, but it also leads to various health issues. Gently brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper every time you clean your teeth.
Use Oral Probiotics
In the past, probiotics were used to help maintain gut and immune health. Now you can use probiotics specially designed for the mouth to naturally support tooth and gum health. Probiotics promote the production of healthy bacteria that work to keep the mouth healthy and decrease nutrients for bacteria that result in bad breath. Moreover, they produce low doses of hydrogen peroxide to lightly whiten the teeth.
Keep your Body Hydrated
Water is the best beverage that solves many health issues, including oral problems. A good rule of thumb is to drink water after each meal as it will help wash down any remaining acids and food particles in the mouth that consequently act as a breeding ground for bacteria.
Eat Crunchy Vegetables and Fruits
Ready-made foods may be convenient but not very good for the teeth. Eating fresh and crunchy produce provides healthy fiber and is the best option for oral health. Keep your jaw active by eating crunchy foods like celery, carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, jicama, lettuce, apples, pears, etc. However, that does not mean using your mouth as a tool. Avoid using your teeth to chew overly-hardened items like ice and candy, or use them to open bottles, packages, etc. Using your teeth to open or cut something can have serious consequences, like chipping or cracking.
Conclusion
In addition to following these tips, seeing a dentist at least twice each year is important so you can stay on top of your oral health and avoid expensive procedures later on. You can request an appointment with RVSC here!
