Eight Ways to maintain Oral Health

Eight Ways to maintain Oral Health

Having healthy teeth is part of the holistic approach to have a healthy body.  And it takes a lifetime of care.  The exercise to maintain healthy teeth requires the use of right oral care products apart from being mindful of daily habits.  Here are some general tips for dental care that may help in your routine life.

1.       Brushing before retiring to bed: Dental care specialists recommend brushing at least twice a day.  Brushing at night after dinner is very important so as to avoid germs and plaque accumulation.  It is equally important to brush properly to maintain absolute hygiene of teeth.  Using the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque is the right way of brushing as unremoved plaque can harden, leading to calculus build up and gum disease. But do not overbrush.

2.       Tongue Cleaning: Also, never forget to clean your tongue by gently using the toothbrush. Soft tongue cleaners are also available in the market.

3.       Use right toothpaste:  People usually tend to go for toothpaste in a casual way.  No matter which brand you choose, specialists advise that toothpaste contains fluoride even though there are varied opinions about it.  Fluoride is considered to be a leading defence against tooth decay that works by fighting germs.   

4.       Flossing: It is as important as brushing:  Flossing once a day is not just for getting little pieces of food or broccoli that may be getting stuck in between your teeth. Flossing helps stimulate the gums, reduce plaque and lower inflammation in the area though at times flossing can be difficult, especially for young children and older adults with arthritis. Ready-to-use dental flossers from the drugstore can be helpful. 

5.       Mouthwash: “Mouthwash is useful as an adjunct tool to help bring things into balance,” say specialists.  Ask your dentist for specific mouthwash recommendations.

6.       Water Drinking: Drink enough water as it is considered to be the best beverage for overall health and oral health is no exception.

7.       Eating Vegetables: Eating fresh, crunchy produce helps in maintaining oral health as ready-to-eat foods, though convenient, are not known to be good for the overall health. Chewing harder-to-eat foods at a younger age helps in maintaining healthy teeth.  When it comes to food eating habits, try to stay away as much as possible from sugary and acidic foods as sugar converts into acid in the mouth which can erode the enamel of teeth to further lead to cavities. 

8.       Visits to Dentist: Last but not the least, visit your dentist at least twice a year for the overall oral health.  This certainly helps in arresting any potential oral health hazards.

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