Tags – Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about your teeth until there’s something wrong with them.
And by then, it’s often too late.
Tooth decay and gum disease are both incredibly common, but they’re also both preventable.
And achieving healthy teeth requires a lifetime of care – even if you’ve had cosmetic surgery.
In this blog , we discuss 6 easy ways that you can keep your teeth healthy and avoid these problems altogether.
1. Brush Regularly and With Proper Technique
Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most essential procedures for removing plaque and germs while maintaining oral health.
However, brushing may only be effective if people use the correct technique.
Essentially, you should brush your teeth using small circular motions, taking care to brush the front, back, and top of every tooth.
And this process should take between 2 and 3 minutes. In other words, avoid being too aggressive and brushing in back-and-forth motions.
Plus, brushing too hard or with a hard bristle toothbrush can harm the enamel and gums.
And the potential effects of this can include tooth sensitivity, due to permanent damage to the protective enamel on the teeth, and gum erosion.
2. Use Fluoride
Fluoridated water, toothpaste and mouthwash are all thought to aid in the prevention of cavities, and it’s a common component in toothpaste and mouthwash.
However, not all dental products contain fluoride which means some people do not use it at all – according to research, a lack of fluoride can result in tooth decay.
3. Floss Daily
Flossing is another essential part of oral hygiene, and it’s recommended that people floss at least once per day.
When done correctly, flossing can help to remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and near the gum line – areas that are often difficult to reach with a toothbrush.
In turn, this helps to prevent bad breath as it removes any leftover food crumbs that have gotten trapped between the teeth.
To floss properly, ensure the floss reaches all the way down to the gum line before doing an up-and-down motion.
4. Use Mouthwash Regularly
Mouthwash is a great way to supplement your oral hygiene routine, and it can help to remove plaque and bacteria that brushing and flossing may not be able to reach.
It’s worth noting here, that mouthwash should not be seen as a substitute for brushing and flossing, but rather it complements these practices.
5. Quit Smoking
As obvious as this sounds, smoking is bad for your overall health, and it’s also terrible for your teeth.
Unfortunately, cigarette smoke contains over 4000 chemicals, including tar and nicotine, and these substances can cause plaque to build-up on the teeth as well as stained teeth and gums. Not to mention, bad breath.
On the other hand, smoking negatively impacts the body’s immune system and makes it difficult to heal tissues – including those in your mouth.
This therefore increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
So, if you want healthy teeth (and a healthier body), quitting smoking should be one of your top priorities.
6. Limit sugary drinks and snacks
Sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay.
So, by avoiding foods and drinks high in sugar, you can help to keep your smile looking good for years to come.
Plus, sugary foods and drinks are often acidic, and this acid can wear away at the enamel on your teeth.
And if you do enjoy the occasional sugary treat, make sure to brush your teeth afterwards, (preferably within 30 minutes), to limit the amount of time that the sugar has to interact with your teeth.
Finishing Thoughts
Your dental hygiene will improve tremendously if you apply the ideas, habits, and routines outlined above.
Lastly, remember to visit your dentist twice a year – you’ll be relieved to show off your healthy and gleaming smile.
Do you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment? Contact us today!
Check our range of dental treatments in the meantime, including Invisalign and Implants.
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