
Although the oral cavity covers a small part of the face, it has far-reaching effects on facial aesthetics and confidence. Furthermore, maintaining good oral health is vital for overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, many people don't know how to go about it. Here are six ways you can follow through with your new year's resolutions for healthy teeth.
Brush your teeth and floss daily
Brushing your teeth clears debris accumulating on the enamel and around your oral cavity. Furthermore, brushing puts a halt to the tooth decay cascade. As a result, dentists recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, preferably after meals. Moreover, fluoride toothpaste is the ideal cleaning solution for brushing teeth.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is imperative to prevent trauma to the gum tissue. Furthermore, toothbrushes ought to be replaced regularly since they become ineffective over time.
Flossing removes food particles and plaque that your toothbrush may miss. Therefore, it's advisable to floss at least once a day for the best oral hygiene. The best time to floss is before bedtime after consuming your last meal. Although flossing is good for maintaining good oral hygiene, it's not a substitute for brushing your teeth.
Use mouthwash
Using mouthwash can help eliminate germs and bacteria in your mouth. Furthermore, the solution helps freshen your breath. The ideal mouthwash has fluoride and the approval of dental health regulatory bodies.
Although good oral hygiene practices are critical to maintaining oral health, do just what is necessary. Brushing too often and exposing your teeth to chemicals several times a day can weaken them and cause more harm than good.
Eat well
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Studies show that certain nutrients like Vitamin C and Calcium are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of teeth and their surrounding tissues. Furthermore, sugary and acidic compounds can cause tooth decay and erosion. Therefore, a lot of emphasis is placed on what you eat.
Limit alcohol and tobacco use
Alcohol and tobacco use increases the risk of oral cancer and gum disease. Tobacco, in particular, leaves tissues in the oral cavity vulnerable to infections. Furthermore, the nicotine and tar from smoking tobacco cause severe teeth discolouration. Therefore, dentists recommend moderation in alcohol consumption and smoking cessation to improve oral health.
Schedule regular dental check-ups
Regular dental check-ups can help detect problems early and prevent them from worsening. Furthermore, the appointments provide the perfect opportunity to seek professional advice and learn all the best practices. Therefore, it's imperative to schedule dental appointments at least twice a year. You can also book more appointments if you develop any problems with your teeth.
Consider dental treatments
If you have cavities, gum disease, missing teeth, or any other dental problem, you can consider several dental treatment options to restore oral health. The recommendation is always to intervene before things get worse. Therefore, it's good practice to seek treatment early. Luckily, dentists offer options to manage each case and provide sound advice. Nonetheless, it's up to you to take action.
Ultimately, your oral health depends on well your follow through with the standard, professional recommendations. If you are committed to all the practices, there is nothing to worry about.