Your teeth play an integral part in your good health. Aside from dictating your successful speech and eating, it also gives you a whole lot of confidence. However, what if you’re already experiencing tooth loss? Don’t worry; there are always ways to control the damage and prevent it from happening again. Today, we’ll take you through what you need to know to maintain excellent oral health. This is expert advice that anyone can adopt, so just relax and learn these eight effective tips on how to have healthy teeth and gums.
1. How to Properly Brush Your Teeth
Yes, caring for teeth doesn’t only require brushing them. You also need to do it the right way. Start by positioning your toothbrush against your teeth at a 45-degree angle. Then use gentle circular motions, brushing on the inside surfaces of your teeth and making a light back and forth motion on the chewing surfaces of your molars. When you’re done, make sure to rinse your mouth with water. A good practice is to brush your teeth at least twice to day, making sure that all surfaces are covered.
2. The Right Toothbrush
There are three things to consider when selecting a toothbrush: bristles, size, and ergonomics. Softer bristles are better for sensitive gums, while firmer bristles are better for plaque removal. The head of your toothbrush should be small enough to reach all areas of your mouth, including your back teeth. As to ergonomics, simply choose a toothbrush that is easy to hold and use. The more comfortable you are with your toothbrush, the more likely you will want to use it.
3. The Right Toothpaste
There are many types of toothpaste that can help give you a healthy, beautiful smile, so be sure to read the labels to find one that meets your needs. For starters, pick a toothpaste with fluoride as this can help prevent cavities. If you have sensitive teeth, there are toothpaste available that can help reduce sensitivity. There are also many different flavors available, so choose one that you will enjoy using.
4. The Benefits of Flossing
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends flossing at least once a day because it removes plaque that brushing alone can’t reach. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and gums. If not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can cause gum disease. When flossing, be sure to use at least 18 inches of the floss so you have a clean section to work with. Wrap most of the floss around each middle finger, leaving about an inch of floss to work with. Use a gentle back-and-forth motion to maneuver the floss between your teeth. Be sure to floss behind your last tooth on each side.
5. Benefits of Mouthwash
Mouthwash is a great way to have beautiful teeth and healthy gums. Make sure to buy one with fluoride to help prevent tooth decay. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth for at least 30 seconds to reach all areas. Spit the mouthwash out after swishing and rinse your mouth with water to remove any residues. Repeat the process at least once a day or as directed by your dentist.
6. Drinking Enough Water
Many people do not realize the importance of drinking enough water for the health of their teeth and gums. When your mouth is properly hydrated, you help it flush out harmful bacteria. Water also helps dilute the sugar that you get from those sweet drinks that you usually drink. As you know, too much sugar leads to tooth decay. In simple terms, drinking enough water a day not only helps you with your overall health but also with your oral health.
7. Eating a Balanced Diet
There’s no overemphasizing the fact that a good diet is crucial to healthy teeth and gums. For one, if you avoid sugary and acidic foods, you can avoid cavities in your teeth. By eating calcium-rich foods, you will also develop stronger teeth. If you have enough vitamin C, you can help yourself fight gum disease and other injuries. It’s evident that the food and drinks you consume have a significant impact on your oral health. Hence, you should be picky in order to avoid problems later on.
8. Regular Dental Checkups
There are many tips for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, but perhaps the most important is going to the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Even if you brush and floss diligently, there are areas of your mouth that you may not be able to reach on your own. These areas can become home to bacteria and plaque, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can catch these problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious. One thing you have to remember is that getting treatment from a dentist without insurance can cost you much out of pocket. So be sure to check this first before going in for a procedure.
Your 8-Step Path to Healthy Teeth and Gums
To have healthy teeth and gums, you need to take care of them every day. But sometimes, you get so caught up with your day-to-day activities that you forget to give your oral health enough attention. The eight tips mentioned above should remind you that you need to keep your teeth and gums healthy. After all, your oral health is heavily tied to your overall health. Therefore, it is not something that you can take for granted or ignore. Looking for more tips on another topic? Browse our blog to read more of our articles!
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