Good oral hygiene is about more than just avoiding cavities or gum disease. In the long term it can make a world of difference to your overall health, and can help you avoid other major medical issues.
If you want to make sure your oral health and hygiene is on track, you need to follow the right practices:
- Brush your teeth thoroughly a minimum of twice a day
Brushing regularly can help clean the surface of your teeth and remove both plaque and bacteria. It is recommended that you brush at least twice a day for 2 minutes at a stretch, and preferably try to do so after your meals. As a rule you should always use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and try to ensure your brushing technique is good.
- Brush your tongue
When you brush you should also take a few seconds to brush your tongue. Both plaque and bacteria can gather there, and it is one of the main causes of bad breath.
- Floss a minimum of once a day
In addition to brushing your teeth you should try to floss them at least once a day. That should help to clear any food particles and plaque that are stuck in between your teeth.
- Use fluoride toothpaste
Fluoride can help to speed up remineralization and prevent the enamel from eroding. Because of that it is one of the best ways to help protect your teeth against cavities.
- Drink lots of water
Drinking water is a good step to improve your oral hygiene. It will help to rinse your mouth and clear out food particles. On top of that if you stay hydrated you’re a lot less likely to suffer from dry mouth – which could cause oral health issues.
- Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks
Sugary and acidic foods and drinks can directly affect your teeth. Both sugar and starch will be broken down by bacteria and turn into acid – which will then erode your teeth. Similarly consuming acidic foods and drinks will make your mouth more acidic and harm your teeth.
- Go for regular dental checkups
At least twice a year (i.e. once every six months) you should make it a point to go for a regular dental checkup. During that checkup you can get your teeth cleaned to remove any tartar and plaque, and your dentist can check to see if there are any early signs of oral health issues.
As you can see the best practices listed above are nothing out of the ordinary, and yet they are each essential if you want to maintain your oral hygiene and health. If you need more specific advice you can ask an Epping dentist, or one that is near your location.
All said and done it really isn’t that difficult to ensure that your oral health is good. It does require that you follow these best practices however, and stick to them no matter how busy or tired you may be.
