Tips To Maintain Good Oral Health

Good oral health is important, not just for people’s appearance but for their overall health as well. The mouth is the gateway to the body, which means the health of a person’s mouth can greatly impact their overall health. Good oral health requires daily care, including regular brushing and flossing, as well as routine dental checkups. This allows your dentist to spot problems before they become serious. Here are a few tips that will help maintain good oral health:

• Brush your teeth regularly

Brush your teeth at least twice a day, once in the morning and once before bedtime. This helps prevent plaque buildup and tooth decay. It also prevents bad breath. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. While holding the toothbrush at an angle, gently brush the inside of your teeth using short back-and-forth strokes. Repeat this motion on the outside of your teeth.

• Floss daily

Flossing daily is a great way to remove plaque that builds up between teeth. Plaque that isn’t removed can turn into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental hygienist at your dental checkup.

• Use mouthwash regularly

Mouthwash helps to get rid of harmful plaque and food particles that linger in your mouth. It can also prevent gingivitis and cavities. Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride, which can help prevent tooth decay. Limit your use of mouthwash to twice per day.

• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months

Your toothbrush can harbor germs, so it’s important to replace it frequently. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends swapping out your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

• Eat a balanced diet

Intake of a balanced diet is essential for the maintenance of good oral and dental health. Consume food rich in fruits, vegetables, dairy products, etc., that will help strengthen teeth and gums. At the same time, limit the intake of too much sugary, starchy, and acidic foods. 

• Visit your dentist regularly

Visiting your dental team at least twice a year for a dental checkup and professional cleaning is critical to maintaining good oral health. These visits allow your dentist to identify any developing issues in their earliest stages when they’re easiest to treat. Plus, professional cleanings help to remove plaque buildup and bacteria from between the teeth and along the gum line that your toothbrush and floss can’t reach.

• Quit smoking and tobacco use 

If you smoke cigarettes or smokeless tobacco, you risk tooth discoloration, tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. Tobacco products contain nicotine, which is a highly addictive substance. Nicotine in tobacco products causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing the risk of periodontal disease.

• Stay hydrated

Keeping up your water intake can help your mouth stay healthier. Whether you’re drinking water or drinking other beverages, staying hydrated can help your mouth produce saliva. Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, so it’s important to stay hydrated.

Schedule an appointment with Del Mar Family Dental Care and Orthodontics for the most comfortable dental care. Walk into 797 Peoria St. Unit A, Aurora, CO 80011. Contact us at (303) 577-0062 or visit our website to book an appointment with us.