Your overall health depends on the condition of your teeth and your gums. Poor dental hygiene is linked to a number of oral health issues including gum disease, tooth decay and bad breath. But maintaining healthy gums and teeth does not require rocket science. By making simple, but consistent, efforts you can keep your mouth clean and your smile beautiful. These ten tips will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
- Brush your teeth twice daily: You should brush twice daily for at least 2 minutes. This will remove plaque from the teeth and help prevent tooth decay. Use fluoride and a soft-bristled brush. Replace your toothbrush at least every three or four months.
- Flossing daily helps remove food and plaque between teeth. Your toothbrush cannot reach these areas. Wrap 18 inches of floss around the middle finger. Hold the floss between thumbs and fingers and gently guide it in between teeth by using a backwards-and-forthwards motion.
- Use mouthwash. It can reduce the bacteria in your mouth and freshen your breath. It also helps prevent gum disease. After brushing your teeth, rinse for 30 seconds.
- Sugary foods, drinks and snacks can cause tooth cavities. Sugary foods and drinks can cause tooth decay.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Water can help wash away food particles, bacteria and other contaminants in the mouth. This helps prevent tooth decay as well as bad breath.
- Chew sugar-free chewing gum. Chewing sugar-free after meals will stimulate salivation, which neutralizes acid and helps prevent tooth decay.
- Regular dental checkups will help you maintain healthy teeth. You can treat any oral issues that arise early by visiting your dentist.
- Wear a splint: Protect your teeth by wearing a splint if you participate in sports.
- Smoking causes a variety of oral health issues, including gum disease and cancer. Stop smoking to improve oral health.
- Consume a healthy diet. A diet rich in minerals and vitamins is vital for the health of your teeth and gums. Include foods like leafy greens and dairy products in your diet.
To conclude, it’s not difficult to maintain healthy teeth and gums. By brushing and swishing daily, limiting the consumption of sugary foods and beverages, drinking enough water, regularly visiting your dental office, and adopting good habits such as quitting smoking and eating well, you can help keep your gums and teeth healthy. Following these ten simple tips will lead to a more beautiful, healthy smile.