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 proper oral hygiene, it is recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and before going to bed, for a duration of two to four minutes each time. Begin by positioning your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and employ a sweeping motion.
Clean your upper teeth by sweeping downwards and your lower teeth by sweeping upwards. When brushing, focus on the chewing surfaces and limit your movements to back and forth motions.
2. Floss every night.
Don't forget to floss your teeth every night before brushing. It's not just about getting rid of food particles, but it also lowers the chances of tooth decay and keeps your gums healthy. Take an 18-inch piece of floss so you can have a clean section for every few teeth.
And when you floss, make sure to move it in a 'C' shape against the teeth, going back and forth, and wrapping 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.
After brushing your teeth, bacteria can still remain on the tongue. Brushing or scraping your tongue as part of your daily routine can help to get rid of this bacteria, and also helps to freshen your breath. Be sure to use one toothbrush for brushing, and a different toothbrush for scraping your tongue.
5. Visit the dentist regularly.
Make it a habit to visit the dentist at least two times a year for a dental check-up and cleaning. Dentists and hygienists have specialized tools and methods to clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can do on your own. Regular examinations also allow your dentist to identify any developing issues early on and suggest treatments to prevent them from worsening.
6. Don’t delay dental treatments.
Many people have fears that prevent them from getting dental treatments, while others avoid treatments because they think that it will be too costly. The truth is, preventive check-ups and treatments do not cost much compared to extensive care of a dental crown or implant. Avoiding necessary treatments may impact your dental hygiene in a negative way and end up costing you more in the long run.
7. Make healthy food choices and minimize sugar.
The food you consume impacts your entire body, including your teeth. It's important to include ample fruits and vegetables in your diet and limit sugar intake to prevent cavities. Calcium and Vitamin D are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
While supplements can help, it's better to obtain these nutrients from sources like milk, fortified orange juice, yogurt, broccoli, cheese, and other dairy products. Vitamin B complex is also necessary to protect 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.
Steer clear of tobacco and other substances that are harmful to your teeth, and try to break habits such as biting your nails or opening bottle caps with your teeth. If you have the habit of sucking your thumb, lip-biting, tongue-thrusting, or clenching your teeth, consult a dentist for treatment options.