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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 that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed, for a duration of two to four minutes per session. Begin by holding your brush at a 45-degree angle and using a sweeping motion. Brush your upper teeth by sweeping downwards, and your lower teeth by sweeping upwards. It is advisable to limit the back-and-forth brushing motion to the chewing surfaces only.
2. Floss every night.
One effective way to promote good oral health is by flossing your teeth every night before brushing. This practice not only eliminates debris but also reduces the chances of tooth decay and maintains the health of your gums. To ensure thorough cleaning, use a piece of floss up to 18 inches long and switch to a fresh area for every few teeth. Moreover, it's important to move the floss in a forward or backward 'C' shape and wrap it around each tooth.
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.
It's important to note that even after brushing your teeth, there may still be lingering bacteria on your tongue. Incorporating a daily routine of brushing or scraping your tongue can effectively eliminate this bacteria and leave your breath feeling fresh. It's recommended to use a separate toothbrush for tongue scraping to maintain proper hygiene.
5. Visit the dentist regularly.
It is recommended that you schedule a dental examination and cleaning with a dentist at least twice a year. They possess specialized tools and techniques that allow for a more thorough cleaning of your teeth than what can be achieved at home. Consistent check-ups also enable your dentist to identify any potential issues early on and suggest appropriate treatment options to prevent further complications.
6. Don't delay dental treatments.
It's common for individuals to experience fear when it comes to dental treatments, and some may even believe that the costs associated with these procedures are too steep. However, the reality is that preventative check-ups and treatments are far more affordable than major dental work like crowns or implants. Failing to receive necessary treatments can negatively impact your dental health and result in higher expenses down the line.
7. Make healthy food choices and minimize sugar.
Your overall health, including that of your teeth, is influenced by what you eat. To keep your teeth healthy, it's important to consume ample amounts of fruits and vegetables while limiting your intake of sugary foods that can cause cavities. Calcium and Vitamin D are crucial for maintaining healthy gums and teeth. While supplements are an option, it's better to obtain these nutrients through milk, fortified orange juice, yogurt, broccoli, cheese, and other dairy products. Additionally, Vitamin B complex is vital for protecting 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 best to avoid tobacco and other harmful substances. Additionally, breaking habits like nail-biting or using teeth to open bottle caps is recommended. For those with habits such as thumb-sucking, lip-biting, tongue-thrusting, or teeth-clenching, seeking advice from a dentist for treatment options is advised.