Who doesn’t want to have a great smile? That, and a myriad of other reasons, is why good oral hygiene is so important. Poor oral hygiene can result in an array of medical and dental problems, including heart disease, bone loss, gum disease, strokes, infections and more. Regular cleanings and check-ups will help to prevent these problems.
How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Here are 10 steps your dentist recommends to promote good oral hygiene.
1. Brush Properly
One of the easiest things you can to do help keep your teeth clean is to brush correctly. This means positioning the toothbrush bristles at a 45-degree angle close to your gum line. The bristles should come into contact with the tooth surface and gum line. Start by brushing the outer surfaces of your teeth with a back-and-forth motion. Make sure you do this gently. To clean the insides of your gums and teeth, place the bristles at the same angle and repeat with an up-and-down motion. Finally, remember to brush the roof of your mouth and the surface of your tongue to get rid of bacteria that causes bad breath.
Dentists recommend that you brush your teeth at least twice a day to prevent acid building up. Work and other activities often prevent us from doing this, so be sure to rinse your mouth with water after eating. This will help minimize the amount of food building up and causing bacteria.
2. Don’t Forget to Floss
While it may feel like a chore, flossing can help you get rid of food particles and other substances that brushing just can’t reach. Flossing lets you reach deep down between the teeth. Dentists suggest that you floss at least once a day.
3. Avoid Tobacco
This will do your teeth a huge favor and will also help you teach healthy dental habits for children. Staying away from tobacco can help you avoid oral cancer.
4. Limit Alcohol, Coffee and Sodas
These liquids contain high levels of phosphorous which is an important mineral for a healthy mouth. However, too much of it can deplete your body of calcium. This in turn leads to oral hygiene problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay. Drinks that have additives such as corn syrup can make your teeth look dull and will discolor them.
5. Take Vitamins and Calcium That Are Good for Your Body
Teeth require plenty of calcium. It is also important for your bones. Dentists recommend that it is better to drink milk, eat broccoli, cheese and yogurt and drink fortified orange juice. Calcium supplements can also be consumed. Doses should be taken according to your age and requirements.
6. Pay Your Dentist a Visit
Try to visit your family dentist at least every six months for a full hygiene treatment. This can help detect and prevent future problems from occurring.
7. Don’t Forget to Use Mouthwash
Mouthwashes that contain Listerine are helpful as they kill and maintain the bacteria in the mouth. Mouthwash also helps to maintain good breath and strong teeth.
8. Dental Symptoms
If you have jaw pain or toothache, make an appointment as early as possible. Your dentist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause and work to correct it before it becomes a bigger deal.
9. Take a Look at the Bigger Picture
Oral health is crucial to your total health picture. Problems with your teeth can lead to systemic infections, diabetes and a range of other problems. Even crowded or crooked teeth can lead to gum disease and the loss of teeth.
10. Remember to Clean Your Tongue
Remember to clean the surface of your tongue every day. Using a professional tongue cleaner will ensure you remove bacteria that lead to halitosis and that can negatively affect your oral health.
