Keeping your teeth healthy and clean is important for maintaining a bright and beautiful smile and plays a crucial role in your overall health.
Poor oral hygiene can lead to various oral health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss.
In this blog post, we’ll share five tips for keeping your teeth healthy and clean, encouraging you to get into a better oral hygiene routine.
Brush your teeth twice a day for healthy teeth and gums.
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is one of the most important things you can do to maintain good oral hygiene. It’s recommended to brush your teeth in the morning and before going to bed for two minutes each time. Brushing helps remove dental plaque and food particles that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
When brushing, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and top. Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well, as it can harbour bacteria that cause bad breath.
Floss Daily for optimal oral health benefits.
Flossing is another important step in keeping your teeth clean and healthy. It helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing once a day is recommended, preferably before bedtime.
To floss properly, break off about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about an inch of floss between them. Gently slide the floss between your teeth and curve it around the base of each tooth, making sure to go beneath the gum line. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash can help freshen your breath and kill bacteria that cause bad breath and gum disease. It’s beneficial for people who wear braces or have hard-to-reach areas in their mouths. Choose a mouthwash that contains fluoride and antibacterial ingredients, and use it after brushing and flossing.
Swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds, and gargle it in the back of your throat as well. Spit it out, and don’t rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
Avoid tooth decay by limiting sugary and acidic foods.
Sugary and acidic foods can damage teeth and lead to cavities and erosion. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acid, which can erode your tooth enamel and cause cavities. Acidic foods like citrus fruits and vinegar can also erode your enamel.
Limit your sugary and acidic foods intake, and try to consume them with meals rather than as snacks. When you do eat them, rinse your mouth with water afterwards, and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth, as brushing too soon can further damage your enamel.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Having a regular dental check-up is essential for maintaining good dental health. Your dentist can detect and treat dental problems early on before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment. Visiting your dentist every six months is recommended for a checkup and cleaning.
During your visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. They may also take x-rays to check for hidden problems. Your dental hygienist will clean your teeth and remove any plaque and tartar buildup.
Dental problems your dentist will look out for at your checkup:
Cavities
Cavities, also known as dental caries, are one of the most common dental issues. They occur when bacteria in your mouth produce acid that erodes your tooth enamel, causing a hole or cavity to form. Cavities can cause pain, sensitivity, and infection if left untreated.
Gum disease,
Also known as periodontal disease, it is an infection of the gums and tissues that support your teeth. It’s caused by bacteria in your mouth that produce toxins that irritate your gums, leading to inflammation and infection. Gum disease can cause bleeding, swelling, and receding gums, as well as tooth loss if left untreated.
Tooth sensitivity:
Tooth sensitivity is a common dental issue that causes pain or discomfort when your teeth are exposed to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour foods, or pressure. It’s often caused by exposed tooth roots, worn enamel, or tooth decay.
Bad breath
It is known as halitosis, a common dental issue caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, dry mouth, or certain foods and medications. Bad breath can be embarrassing and may indicate an underlying dental or health problem.
Tooth grinding
Also known as bruxism, is a condition where you clench or grind your teeth, often during sleep. It can cause tooth wear, jaw pain, headaches, and even tooth fractures.
Tooth loss
Tooth loss can occur as a result of gum disease, tooth decay, injury, or other factors. Missing teeth can affect your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently, leading to other dental problems if left untreated.
Oral cancer
Oral cancer is a serious dental issue that can affect any part of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat. It’s often caused by smoking or chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, and other factors. Early detection and treatment are essential for a better prognosis.
Start your journey to a healthier smile today!
Taking care of your teeth is essential for maintaining good oral health and overall health. By following these five tips and looking out for any dental problems, you can keep your teeth healthy and clean and enjoy a beautiful smile for years to come.
Contact Chrysanth Dental Care today to book a routine checkup.
020 3620 1113
079 8557 9154
493 Cambridge Heath Rd, London E2 9BU, UK
