Your smile is often the first thing people notice about you, and it can leave a lasting impression. A beautiful smile is a sign of good health, confidence, and positivity. Still, achieving a radiant smile requires more than just regular brushing and flossing. It requires a combination of good dental hygiene practices and healthy lifestyle habits.
Starting from a young age, adopting good oral hygiene practices is the key to maintaining a healthy smile for life. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need expensive treatments and procedures to keep your teeth healthy and strong. Most ways to maintain your pearly whites can be done right at home, and consistency is the key to success.
In this article, we’ll go through what you can do to improve your smile and keep your teeth happy and healthy from the comfort of your home. These simple yet powerful tips will help you improve your daily dental routine and achieve a brighter, healthier smile that you can be proud of. So, if you’re ready to start looking after your teeth better, keep reading!
- Brush properly
The technique with which you brush is crucial. In fact, brushing your teeth improperly is almost as terrible as not brushing at all. Take your time and remove plaque by gently circling your teeth with the toothbrush. Plaque that isn’t removed may harden, causing calculus to form and gingivitis (early gum disease).
So, if you want to know how to have healthy teeth and gums, brushing with the proper technique is the answer.
- Don’t neglect your tongue
Your tongue may also develop plaque. Your tongue acts as a sponge for bacteria, which can cause bad breath as well as other dental health issues. Thus, always remember to brush your tongue whenever you brush your teeth. For this, you can make use of your toothbrush. Or, you can get a tongue scraper from the oral health section of the shop.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
While many people prioritize toothpaste with whitening power and interesting flavours, there are other crucial elements to consider. Regardless of the brand or type, fluoride should be a non-negotiable ingredient in your toothpaste. Although some individuals are concerned about the potential impact of fluoride on overall health, it is a proven and essential component in oral health. Fluoride is a powerful defense against tooth decay as it fights harmful germs and forms a protective layer over teeth. So, if you want to ensure that your teeth stay strong and healthy, make sure to choose fluoride-containing toothpaste.
- Treat flossing as important as brushing
Some people believe that flossing is an optional part of oral care, but this is not the case. Like brushing your teeth, flossing should be a regular part of your daily oral hygiene routine. It offers numerous benefits, such as stimulating your gums, removing plaque buildup, cleaning the spaces between your teeth, and reducing inflammation in flossed areas.
Flossing can be challenging for younger children or older adults with joint pain. However, you can make it easier for young children by assisting them, or by purchasing pre-threaded floss picks. It is crucial to make flossing a daily habit, and even doing it once a day can provide significant benefits. Therefore, it’s important to ensure that you include flossing in your daily oral care regimen.
- Consider mouthwash
According to research, certain mouthwashes can improve oral hygiene. For instance, chlorhexidine, an antibacterial component found in some mouthwashes, can assist in preventing plaque and gingivitis, as reported by one review. Additionally, mouthwash provides 3 advantages: it lowers mouth acid levels, cleans hard-to-reach areas around the gums, and re-mineralizes teeth. Essential oil-containing mouthwashes are also beneficial, according to a meta-analysis. While mouthwash can aid in maintaining good oral health, it cannot replace brushing and flossing. Instead, it can be used in conjunction with these practices.
- Drink more water
For the benefit of your general and oral health, water remains the most excellent drink choice. Additionally, it’s advisable to drink water after meals, as research suggests. Doing so can assist in rinsing away the harmful effects of sugary and acidic foods and drinks that persist even after brushing.
- Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
While ready-to-eat foods are convenient, they may not be the best for your dental health. Opting for fresh and crisp fruits and vegetables not only provides more beneficial fibre but also supports optimal dental health.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods
The consumption of sugar can contribute to the development of cavities, and several studies have highlighted its adverse effects on oral health. Although candy and desserts are notorious for their high sugar content, many processed foods also contain added sugar.
Moreover, experts warn that starchy foods like crackers, chips, bread, and pasta can also cause tooth decay. These foods tend to stay in the mouth for a prolonged period, breaking down into simple sugars that bacteria feed on and produce acid, which can cause tooth decay.
- Avoid smoking and other tobacco products
Smoking significantly contributes to oral cancer and gum disease. It is advisable to abstain from using tobacco products altogether. If you’re a smoker and wish to quit, consult your healthcare provider for treatment alternatives.
- See your dentist at least twice a year
Dental professionals advise that individuals schedule a check-up with a dentist every six months. During regular dental checkups, a dental hygienist will clean the teeth, and remove plaque and hardened tartar.
Furthermore, the dentist will look for visual indications of gum disease, cavities, mouth cancer, and other dental concerns. They may also use dental X-rays on some occasions to detect cavities.
Recent research shows that children and adolescents should visit a dentist every six months to prevent cavities. However, adults who maintain good dental hygiene practices daily and have a low risk of oral health issues may need to schedule check-ups less frequently.
In the end, it is essential to know the importance of regular dental hygiene in maintaining a healthy smile. Your dental hygiene practices and preventive measures will significantly influence your oral health and well-being in the long run.
Kingsway Family Dentistry is a dentist in Beamsville that offers a full range of high-quality dental care for your whole family. To learn more about proper dental practices, call now at (905) 563-4001.