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By following these oral health tips, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.
1. Brush twice a day, for at least minutes.
To maintain good oral hygiene, it is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before bedtime, for a duration of two to four minutes each time.
Begin by positioning your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and using gentle sweeping motions. Clean your upper teeth by sweeping downwards and your lower teeth by sweeping upwards. Focus on the chewing surfaces by brushing back and forth.
2. Floss every night.
Flossing your teeth every night before brushing not only clears away debris but also reduces the chances of tooth decay. It also promotes healthy gums. Take an 18-inch piece of floss to ensure a fresh section for every few teeth. Remember to create a forward or backward 'C' shape with the floss, wrapping it around each tooth while gently rubbing against them.
3. Rinse with mouthwash daily.
Adding mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine can help to kill the germs that can build up in your mouth. Because mouthwash can go where toothbrushes and floss can't, it can help to rid your mouth of debris that can irritate the gum line and lead to gum disease.
4. Brush or scrape your tongue daily.
Even after brushing your teeth, bacteria can linger on your tongue. Incorporating tongue brushing or scraping into your daily routine can effectively eliminate this bacteria and freshen your breath. Remember to use a separate toothbrush for tongue brushing or scraping, keeping it separate from your regular toothbrush.
5. Visit the dentist regularly.
Visit the dentist, at least twice a year, for a dental examination and cleaning. Dentists and hygienists have tools and techniques to clean your teeth far more thoroughly than you can at home. Regular exams also mean your dentist can find any issues that are developing sooner and offer treatment options to prevent them from getting worse.
6. Don’t delay dental treatments.
A lot of people have fears that stop them from seeking dental treatments, and others avoid treatment due to concerns about cost. The reality is that preventive check-ups and treatments are relatively inexpensive compared to more extensive procedures like dental crowns or implants.
Neglecting necessary treatments can have a detrimental effect on your dental health and potentially lead to higher costs in the future.
7. Make healthy food choices and minimize sugar.
The food you eat has an effect on your whole body, including your teeth. So be sure to eat plenty of fruits and veggies, and minimize your consumption of sugar which leads to cavities. Calcium and Vitamin D are necessary for maintaining the health of gums and teeth. You may take supplements, but it is better to drink milk, fortified orange juice, and to eat yogurt, broccoli, cheese, and other dairy products. Vitamin B complex is also essential for the protection of gums and teeth from cracking and bleeding.
8. Limit pop, coffee, and alcohol.
Beverages containing additives such as corn syrup and food dye can make white teeth appear dull and discoloured. It is best to choose beverages such as milk, which helps to strengthen teeth and build stronger enamel, and water which hydrates your body.
9. Wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
If you play sports or other contact activities, it is recommended to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth and gums from impact or injury. Most dental offices offer custom-made mouth guards for patients to comfortably fit their smiles and keep their teeth safe from damage.
10. Avoid habits that are harmful to your teeth.
To maintain healthy teeth, it's important to avoid tobacco and other substances that can be detrimental. Additionally, it's advisable to break habits like nail-biting or using your teeth to open bottle caps. If you engage in habits such as thumb-sucking, lip-biting, tongue-thrusting, or teeth-clenching, it's best to consult a dentist for potential treatment options.