It’s no secret that your oral health is important for the overall well-being of your body. But what many people don’t realize is just how far-reaching the effects are. For example, one study found that adults who have gum disease are two to three times more likely to develop heart disease than those without it. That should be enough to convince you to take care of your teeth!
Oral hygiene isn’t just about having a nice smile; it can help prevent major diseases like diabetes and stroke down the line. And since there are so many benefits, taking care of your oral health doesn’t need to be difficult or time-consuming either! Here are some simple ways you can keep up with good dental hygiene.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day
When it comes to good oral hygiene, there’s nothing more important than brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Make sure you brush for two minutes per session and that you use the proper technique; it’s not just about covering every surface of the teeth. It’s also important to brush your teeth after every meal since bacteria can build up and cause bad breath, enamel erosion, and gum disease.
Floss daily
In addition to brushing twice a day, it’s also crucial to floss once a day. Though many people assume that they don’t have to floss because their teeth are close together, that’s not true. Flossing is essential for removing plaque and bacteria from between your teeth that brushing can’t reach.
See a dental professional at least twice a year
Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as just saying “I brushed and flossed today!” There are always going to be bacteria in your mouth, so there’s a need for continued care with visits to the dentist’s office. You should see a dentist at least once every six months to get checkups and cleanings. If you have gum disease, it will only get worse without treatment, which can lead to other health problems. If you’re already seeing a dental professional and still having problems, ask them for advice on how to better your daily hygiene routine.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks, especially between meals.
Over time, sugary foods and drinks can cause damage to your teeth. If you’re going to eat these kinds of snacks, try to do so before a meal instead of after one since acidic foods and drinks weaken tooth enamel.
Sugar is one of the main causes of tooth decay. When you eat or drink something sugary, the sugar coats your teeth and sticks around for a while. This is a prime opportunity for bacteria to grow, which can lead to cavities and other dental problems. That’s why it’s so important to avoid sugary foods and drinks as much as possible.
If you do end up eating something sugary, make sure to brush your teeth right away. And if you can’t brush your teeth right away, at least rinse your mouth out with water. Rinsing helps remove some of the sugar and bacteria from your teeth and decreases the likelihood of developing cavities.
Use a mouthwash that contains fluoride to help reduce plaque build-up and bacteria growth.
Mouthwash can be useful in helping to get rid of bacteria, but you must use the right kind. If your mouthwash contains fluoride it will help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. With so many types of fluoride-adding mouthwashes out there, all brands are not created equal. Make sure to find something with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval so you know it’s safe to use.
The ADA seal of approval is a sign that a product has been tested and found to be effective and safe for use. It’s a symbol of trust that can be relied on to help you make the best choices for your oral health. When looking for a fluoride-adding mouthwash, make sure to find one with the ADA seal of approval to ensure that it will be effective in preventing cavities and reducing plaque build-up.
Chew sugar-free gum after meals to help stimulate saliva production and neutralize acids that cause tooth decay.
When you chew gum while eating, your saliva production increases to help wash away food particles and neutralize the acid that can cause tooth decay. Chew gum about five minutes after finishing a meal, but if you’re going to snack on something right before bedtime then it’s best not to chew any gum since this can lead to an increased risk of developing a cavity.
By taking good care of your oral health, you can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. So make sure to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding sugary foods and drinks, and using a mouthwash that contains fluoride!
