We all understand how important maintaining proper oral health is. That said, healthy teeth and gums are a result of crucial steps that we must all take to ensure we take care of all parts of our mouths. Below, we will look at a few things you can do to boost your oral health.
Get a Better Toothbrush
Many people put a lot of emphasis on flossing and forget that a good toothbrush is the foundation of healthy teeth and gums. When getting a toothbrush, you do not have to get the latest and greatest electric toothbrush, as traditional toothbrushes work just as well. The one thing you ought to pay close attention to is the bristles. You want bristles that are hard enough to clean your teeth and gums properly but still soft enough to get between the teeth.
Remember not to get a toothbrush with bristles that are too hard as that can increase the chances of injuring your gums should you brush too hard.
Remember to Brush the Tongue
It is surprising how many people do not know they need to brush their tongues. Oral hygienists know it is possible for plaque to form on the tongue. This can lead to a multitude of oral health problems, the least of which is bad breath. So, the next time you brush your teeth, gently brush your tongue too.
Quit Smoking
Oral health is among the multitude of reasons why smokers should quit. Smoking can lead to gum disease, and because smoking weakens the immune system, it can make it difficult to recover from.
Deal with Dry Mouth
To improve oral health, it is important to deal with a dry mouth, especially while sleeping. Saliva is very important in keeping proper oral health and if your mouth is constantly dry, your oral health could be compromised. The good news is that it is preventable and you may need to change a few of your habits. For example, preventing mouth breathing while sleeping, reducing your caffeine intake, chewing sugar-free gum, sipping water regularly and switching to a mouthwash that is designed for a dry mouth can all help.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Even when keeping the best oral hygiene habits, it is still important to visit a dentist regularly. A dentist can detect signs of gum disease or tooth decay early. That way, they can help you sort it out before things get out of hand.
It is also advisable that you get a cleaning a few times a year. A dental cleaning removes tartar and any plaque you might have missed as you brushed or flosses. Dental cleanings can also reverse gingivitis.
Eat Better
If you want better oral hygiene, focus on eating a healthy diet. Ideally, this diet should include vegetables, chicken, fruits, fish, and organic food. Another dietary change you could make to improve your oral health is cutting down on soft drink consumption. Soft drinks contain acid which can rot teeth, sugars that can cause diabetes as well as caffeine that could lead to dry mouth. You should also reduce the amount of “sugar-free” diet drinks because even though they may not have the high sugar content other soft drinks have, they are still very acidic.
Consider Using a Mouthwash
Many people skip using mouthwash because they do not know how it works. A good mouthwash:
- Cleans areas where your toothbrush does not normally reach
- Reduces the acidity levels in the mouth
- Re-mineralizes your teeth
That last point is especially important for people whose teeth are starting to get wear off.
If you do not know how to choose the right mouthwash, talk to your dentist about it as they likely know your mouth better than anyone else.
Proper oral health is important for so many different reasons. In addition to helping you keep all your teeth, it can help eliminate bad breath, which is a turn-off for everyone you talk to.
