Dental hygiene is an essential part of overall health and wellness. Good dental hygiene habits help to prevent cavities, bad breath, and other oral health problems. However, many people struggle with dental hygiene every year.
While Brits are often mocked for their yellow teeth, many studies suggest that their dental hygiene and oral care are actually better than those in the United States. Consequently, we’ve listed some top tips to fix this problem and get into positive habits.
- Brush your teeth twice a day – Regular, thorough brushing is the foundation of good dental hygiene. Make sure to brush for two minutes each time, and use a toothbrush with soft bristles that won’t damage enamel or gums.
- Floss regularly – Flossing removes food particles and plaque that regular brushing misses. Flossing at least once a day is recommended, but twice a day is even better. When food is left in between teeth, it can harden and become tartar, a hard deposit that you must have professionally removed.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash – An antibacterial mouthwash can reduce the amount of plaque and bacteria in your mouth, helping to prevent cavities and gum disease.
- Avoid sugary drinks and snacks – Although they may be tasty, sugary drinks and snacks can cause tooth decay. If you do consume these products, make sure to brush your teeth after eating them.
- Don’t smoke – Smoking can lead to bad breath, stained teeth, and an increased risk of gum disease. If you are a smoker, quit to improve your oral health. In fact, quit to improve your overall health because you WILL notice the difference.
- Visit the dentist regularly – Even if you take proper care of your teeth at home, it is important to visit the dentist at least twice a year. Your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of decay or other problems and can help you to keep your smile looking its best. If any issues arise, your dentist can provide treatments to help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Consider professional cleanings – Professional dental cleanings are recommended every 6 months to help remove plaque and tartar buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach. These cleanings will also provide a deeper level of cleaning than you would get from brushing and flossing at home. Not only can these cleanings help to keep your teeth looking their best, but they can also prevent gum disease and other oral health problems that may arise if plaque and tartar are left to build up.
- Invest in a water filtration system for your home – Another great way to look after your teeth is to invest in a water filtration system for your home. This will help to remove any impurities or contaminants in your tap water, which can contribute to tooth decay and other oral health problems. With Gordon Water Systems, you can get customized filtration systems to meet your specific needs.
- Eat a balanced diet – Finally, remember to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Foods high in calcium, such as yogurt, cheese, and milk can also strengthen your teeth, as well as provide essential vitamins and minerals. As we saw earlier, avoid sugary snacks and drinks to help prevent tooth decay.
With these tips, you should be able to maintain a healthy smile for years to come. Don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly and brush twice a day!