Good oral health is about much more than having white teeth and a nice smile. Problems can result in pain, tooth loss, bad breath and can affect your health generally. It’s important, therefore, that you ensure good oral health by undertaking a regular and thorough regime that will protect your teeth and gums.
1. Brush Regularly and Properly
You should always brush your teeth twice a day, as soon as you get up in the morning and before going to bed at night. This will get rid of any germs and plaque that have accumulated overnight or through the day. Never brush your teeth immediately after eating because the acidity that’s in your mouth at that time softens the enamel, which can be damaged by brushing before it rehardens.
Brush gently to avoid hurting your gums, holding your brush at an angle towards the point where the teeth and gums meet. Use circular motions and brush for around two minutes, concentrating on the chewing surfaces of the teeth as well as the inside and outside surfaces.
Your tongue can have bacteria that cause mouth odour so make sure you clean this as well, either using your toothbrush or a tooth scraper. And floss between the teeth at least once a day, either before or after brushing. This not only removes bits of food that can cause odour if left but also stimulates the gums, reduces inflammation and gets rid of plaque that causes gum disease that eventually leads to tooth loss.
Consider using a mouthwash for additional protection. This can re-mineralise teeth, clean areas that you have difficulty reaching and reduce acid in the mouth.
2. Use the Right Equipment
Try to use a soft toothbrush since a hard one can hurt your gums. An electric version is often preferable because, no matter how conscientious you are, it will generally do a better job than a manual one.
Replace your toothbrush, or the brush head in an electric toothbrush, every three months or when the bristles are becoming ragged. Always rinse the brush after use and store it in an upright position so it dries out. Never cover it since this will encourage bacteria and mould, and keep separate from other toothbrushes to avoid cross-contamination.
Clean and healthy teeth are more important than them being white so choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Although this does have its critics, it provides a protective barrier on the teeth, fights germs and prevents decay.
If you have difficulty using normal dental floss, there are suitable alternatives available. These include pre-threaded flossers, inter-dental brushes and water flossers. Choose the one that you find most suitable.
3. Eat Healthily
Although this is important for your general well-being, it’s also advisable for your oral health. Limit the amount of sugary and acidic foods you eat since these can erode the enamel on your teeth and eventually cause cavities. Instead, eat plenty of crunchy fruit and vegetables since these are best for your teeth, keep your jaws working and provide much-needed fibre.
4. See you Dentist Regularly
No matter how well you clean and look after your teeth and gums, you should always see your dentist twice a year for a check-up and, if necessary, a good clean. This will ensure that possible problems are spotted early and that action can be taken before it’s too late.
Also see your dentist if you have any mouth pain, loose teeth, receding or painful gums or bleeding when you brush or floss. Once you lose your adult teeth, there’s no going back so take action before it’s too late.