Good oral hygiene is essential to keep teeth and gums healthy. It includes habits such as brushing twice a day and having regular dental examinations.
But oral health is more than cavities and gum disease. Research has shown that there is a correlation between a person’s oral health and their overall health.
If left untreated, cavities or gum problems can cause pain, self-esteem issues, and tooth loss. These problems can lead to malnutrition, speech problems, and other difficulties in a person’s work, school, or private life.
People can prevent these problems with proper dental care, both at home and in the dentist’s office. Below you can read about substances that can keep teeth and gums healthy.
1) Brush regularly
Most people are aware that brushing their teeth twice a day is one of the most important practices for removing plaque and bacteria and keeping teeth clean. However, brushing can only be effective if people use the right technique.
People should brush in small circular motions, taking care to brush the front, back and top of each tooth. This process takes between 2 and 3 minutes. People should avoid making back and forth movements.
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage enamel and gums. The effects of this can include tooth sensitivity, permanent damage to the protective enamel on the teeth, and gum erosion.
2) Use dental floss once a day
Flossing can remove plaque and bacteria between the teeth where the toothbrush can’t reach. It can also help prevent bad breath by removing debris and food stuck between teeth.
Most dental hygienists recommend gently pushing the floss up to the gum line before wrapping it around the side of the tooth in an up and down motion. It is important to avoid moving the floss up and down between teeth, which can cause pain and will not remove plaque effectively.
3) See a dentist regularly
Experts recommend that people go to the dentist every 6 months for a checkup. During a routine dental exam, a hygienist will clean the teeth; It will remove plaque and hardened tartar.
The dentist will check for visual signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health problems. Sometimes they may also use a dental X-ray to check for cavities.
The results of a recent study confirm that children and adolescents should see a dentist every 6 months to help prevent cavities. He states that people who brush their teeth twice a day, have regular dental check-ups and have no complaints can go at longer intervals.
People can talk to their dentist about how often they need checkups. This may vary depending on the individual’s health history, age, and overall dental health. However, anyone who notices changes in their mouth should visit a dentist.
4) Do not smoke
Smoking damages the body’s immune system, making it harder for the body to heal tissues, including those in the mouth. Smoking is a risk factor for gum disease. Smokers may experience slow recovery after a dental procedure.
Smoking also affects the appearance of the mouth, causing yellowing of the teeth and tongue and can cause bad breath.
5) Consider a mouthwash
Some research shows that certain mouthwashes may benefit oral health. For example, one review found that mouthwash containing the antibacterial ingredient chlorhexidine helps control plaque and gingivitis. Mouthwashes containing certain essential oils are also effective.
People may want to ask their dentist which mouthwash is best for their individual needs. A mouthwash cannot replace brushing and flossing, but it can complement these practices.
