The appearance and health of your teeth heavily depend on how well your oral hygiene is maintained. If your oral health is neglected, it may lead to cavities, gum disease, and cause heart disease and diabetes.
By developing healthy routines, you can maintain your teeth and gums throughout your life. Not sure about what practices can help achieve good oral hygiene? Stay with us to learn the six best practices for your healthy teeth and gums.
1.Brush Twice Daily, But Properly
After you wake up in the morning and before you go to bed at night, brushing your teeth regularly is fundamental. But how you brush is just as important as how many times you should do it regularly. Bring a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and brush your teeth gently for at least two minutes.
When you brush, try to reach all areas of your mouth. Never ignore your tongue—that’s where bacteria build up and cause bad breath.
To enhance your oral microbiome and support long-term dental health, consider incorporating oral probiotics into your daily routine, balancing the good bacteria in your mouth. As a result, there is a reduction in harmful microbes that cause gum disease and cavities.
2. Add Flossing to Everyday Routine
Next, make flossing a routine. Food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach properly, can easily be removed through flossing. Additionally, this disrupts bacterial buildup, which will prevent cavities and gum disease.
Flossing takes only a few minutes. However, it can significantly improve your overall oral health. If traditional flossing is challenging for you—consider trying floss picks or a water flosser instead—which is an effective alternative.
3. Utilise Mouthwash Wisely
Never overlook the importance of using mouthwash; you must incorporate it into your daily oral hygiene routine. The primary purpose of using a mouthwash is to reduce bacteria and freshen your breath.
When you shop for a mouthwash, prioritise choosing an alcohol-free, antibacterial one that targets plaque and gingivitis without causing dryness.
Using a mouthwash doesn’t mean you neglect your brushing and flossing routine; stick to it, just add mouthwash for extra protection.
4. Keep Yourself Well-Hydrated
A dry mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria and other infections. Make it a routine to drink water as much as you can throughout the day. This will help rinse your mouth and lower the amount of acid produced by harmful bacteria. If you are experiencing dry mouth for many days or months, chewing sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva production.
5. Consume a Diet Suitable for Your Teeth
Whatever you consume can significantly impact on your overall health, and oral health is no exception. Consuming sugary foods and drinking acidic beverages can damage your tooth enamel and increase the likelihood of cavities.
Instead, always eat a diet rich in fibre, calcium and vitamin D. Consuming apples and carrots will not only make your teeth stronger but also keep your gums healthier.
6. Visit Your Dentist Every Now and Then
When it comes to maintaining good oral hygiene, routine dental checkups. Consider visiting a dental expert near you, typically after every six months. They can better identify dental problems early on, preventing serious dental issues.
By cleaning your teeth and guiding you on how to enhance your daily dental routine, they contribute to your oral health. Above all else, preventive care is more critical than only going to the dentist once you feel pain.
