our mouth is home to tons of bacteria, which are vital for your general health. If you don’t maintain proper oral hygiene, these bacteria can cause many problems in other parts of your body. Here we will bring you up-to-date on the importance of good oral hygiene and how to improve it so that you maintain optimal health.
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Importance of Good Oral Health
Several problems can stem from dental neglect. These problems vary depending on what causes them. Gum diseases like periodontitis can lead to the loss of teeth and make it difficult to eat. Tooth decay can cause unsightly dental work and may lead to lifelong consequences, like impaired speech. Children are especially susceptible to these infections, leading to cavities and more severe infections even at a young age. Adults are also vulnerable to these problems, so it’s vital to maintain proper hygiene as you age.
Tips for Improving Your Oral Health
Maintaining good oral health is a matter of discipline. Try to visit a dentist twice a year for checkups. Dental problems can be fixed early on with just a few trips to the dentist. Here are some surprising ways to improve your oral health.
Use an Electric Toothbrush
Electric toothbrushes are designed to be more efficient at removing plaque. These brushes also move more quickly. They can hit more surfaces in a shorter period. They work by vibrating back and forth across the surface of your teeth, which dislodges any debris on them and helps remove bacteria. There are many electric toothbrushes to choose from. Ensure you get one that fits your needs best. Electric brushes cost more, but their higher performance makes them a worthwhile investment. When you get a new one, read the user manual to know how long to charge it and how to clean it properly.
Consume a Balanced Diet
A diet rich in healthy fat, calcium, and vitamin D is vital to good oral health. These nutrients help promote good health in their own right and make it easier for your body to use the calcium in your bones. Be sure not to have too much or too little of any one nutrient. A varied diet will ensure you get all the necessary vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whole foods like meat, milk, and yogurt also have unique benefits for your teeth. Meat contains zinc, which is used to create new teeth. Milk contains calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for strong bones. Yogurt is a significant source of calcium and protein, which are used to repair damage in the mouth.
Brush Your Tongue
Your tongue is home to some of the worst bacteria. These bacteria can cause oral problems like mouth sores. You can help cut back on these harmful bacteria by brushing your tongue. Use a tongue scraper to remove any unwanted debris. You may even notice a change in flavor due to the removal of bacteria. When brushing your teeth, use a toothbrush with bristles that are not too hard. Brushing your tongue during everyday mouth hygiene will help prevent bacteria from forming.
Chew Gum
Chewing gum is an excellent way to keep your mouth clean and healthy. If you feel like you have bad breath, chewing gum can provide relief. The act of chewing itself helps stimulate the production of saliva. This cleanses the mouth of excess bacteria and food particles. Be sure to chew sugarless gum, as sugary gums can cause cavities and dry your mouth further. Buy an unsweetened gum that you like, and be sure to chew it for at least a few minutes. The longer you chew, the more saliva you make.
Spit, Don’t Rinse, After Brushing Your Teeth
Rinsing your mouth after brushing is common, but it’s not very effective. Rinsing removes the fluoride in your toothpaste, which helps prevent cavities. Instead, spit out the excess toothpaste and then use the toothbrush to clean off the rest of your teeth. This ensures that the fluoride has time to work its way into your teeth and make them stronger.
If you notice any significant problems, make an appointment immediately so they can be treated while still minor. A holistic dentist can help you deal with cavities and other dental problems. Visit smileangels today to build a plan of care, find a dentist, and get the supplies you need to achieve excellent oral health.