Oral Hygiene – 7 Tips for Healthy Teeth
Have you ever met someone who looked well-dressed, had an impressive personality, and had a good sense of humor? You were almost about to get to know them better until you noticed their yellowed and decayed teeth. It’s a huge turn-off. And something that you wouldn’t want anyone to notice in you. Good oral hygiene is not only essential to make a favorable first impression or show off a great smile, but it is also essential for overall health and well-being. A healthy and beautiful smile will boost your self-confidence and image, making you feel comfortable in social situations.
However, if your teeth are in bad condition, it can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, and other problems. You may also suffer from gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis. These conditions can cause pain and discomfort, in addition to being unsightly.
Therefore, practicing good oral hygiene and keeping your teeth and gums healthy is crucial. These tips will help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile:
- Visit dentists regularly
You might not think it’s necessary to go to the dentist if you don’t have any toothaches, but regular check-ups are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Your dentist can detect signs of dental disease before they become serious problems and can provide preventive treatments such as cleanings and sealants.
However, you must choose a reliable and experienced dentist to ensure you get the best care, especially when undergoing complex oral surgery procedures. For instance, residents of San Francisco can trust SF Oral Surgery San Francisco for an effective and safe outcome. They offer compassionate and patient-centered care combined with advanced technology to ensure every procedure is successful.
- Brush your teeth twice a day
Before going to bed and early in the morning, brush your teeth for a few minutes. Brush for two full minutes, paying attention to all sides of your mouth. It removes plaque, bacteria, and food particles that can cause cavities or gum disease.
Ensure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Move the brush in small circles from the gums to the top of the teeth. Repeat this motion over each tooth until they are all clean.
If your toothbrush bristles are frayed, change it to a new toothbrush every three months. The brush size should fit comfortably in your mouth, and the handle should be easy to grip.
- Floss daily
Food particles often get stuck between your teeth, which a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing helps remove these food particles, preventing the onset of cavities and gum disease.
Various floss types are available, such as waxed, unwaxed, flavored, and unflavored. Pick one that suits your needs.
To floss correctly, wind 18-20 inches of floss around your middle fingers and hold the ends with your thumbs. Starting with the back teeth, use a gentle sawing motion to slide the floss between your teeth and curve it around each tooth. Unwind new sections of floss as you go so that you use a clean section for each tooth.
Floss at least once a day. You can floss in the morning or at night, whichever is more convenient for you. If flossing makes your gums bleed, don’t worry- this is normal. Gently but consistently flossing over time will help your gums to get used to it, and the bleeding should stop.
- Avoid smoking tobacco
Tobacco contains a variety of substances that are toxic to the oral cavity and can contribute to oral diseases such as gum disease and tooth decay. Moreover, nicotine and tar in tobacco can stain your teeth and cause bad breath. And then, no matter how much you brush or floss, you won’t be able to keep your teeth healthy and white.
Therefore, it’s best to quit smoking and avoid using tobacco products. Not only will you have healthier gums and teeth, but you’ll also live a healthier lifestyle and reduce your risk of developing severe diseases.
- Limit sugary and starchy foods
Candies, cookies, and cakes are some of the most common culprits concerning tooth decay. Even if you brush your teeth after every meal and snack, sugary and starchy foods can cling to your teeth and cause cavities. It’s best to avoid or limit these types of foods, especially if you don’t brush your teeth after eating them.
You can find healthy snack alternatives low in sugar and starch, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. They help keep your teeth clean and healthy and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Gargle mouthwash
The antibacterial and antiviral properties of mouthwash can help remove bacteria and viruses from your mouth, aiding your oral hygiene. Moreover, they can help fight cavities and reduce gum inflammation.
It would be best to use mouthwash at least twice daily to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
How to use mouthwash:
- Swish the mouthwash for 30 to 40 seconds in your mouth.
- Ensure to reach all areas of the mouth, especially around your gum line.
- Spit out the mouthwash.
- Rinse your mouth with water for a few seconds after using mouthwash.
These steps should be followed every time you use mouthwash to ensure maximum benefits.
- Drink water instead of sodas
Drinking lots of water throughout the day is essential for oral health. Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria from your teeth and gums. Also, drinking water can help prevent dry mouth, a condition that increases the risk of tooth decay. It keeps saliva production at a healthy level, which helps reduce the number of bacteria and acids that can damage your teeth.
Sodas are full of sugars and acids that can damage your teeth and gums, so it’s best to avoid them and opt for water instead.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a child or an adult, maintaining oral hygiene is essential for overall well-being. Taking care of your teeth and gums requires regular brushing and flossing, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding sugary drinks. Doing so can help keep your teeth healthy, strong, and free from bacteria-related diseases. If you’d like more professional advice on how you can keep your teeth healthy, you can check out this dentist who does bonding, filling, and the best teeth whitening in Murray Hill.
