5 Steps to Good Oral Health
Good dental health is so much more than simply brushing your teeth thoroughly each day. Even if you meticulously follow a good oral hygiene routine this doesn’t rule out problems. By understanding some top tips for optimum oral health, you can reduce the risk of plaque build up and bigger issues later on. Here are our top 5 tips for good oral health.
Correct Brushing
A good brushing technique can really make all the difference. Make sure you reach all areas of your mouth as well as your teeth including gums, tongue and roof of your mouth. Brush at a 45 degree angle in circular movements close to the gum line making sure that you get into the corners and properly clean each of your teeth, top and bottom, back and front. If you use a manual toothbrush, don’t forget that it will need changing every two or three months and avoid using excessive pressure when you brush.
Floss
As good as brushing is, it’s not the only way to keep your mouth clean. Using floss or interdental brushes to reach areas that normal brushing cannot. Residue and build up can be easily and quickly removed with the gentle use of floss or interdental brushes.
A Good Diet
A healthy, balanced diet will keep your mouth healthy but avoid acidic foods such as juice or sugary foods and drinks which can increase the amount of plaque. Your body needs the right amount of vitamins and minerals to keep your teeth health and most of these are obtained from your food.
Regular Check-ups Regular visits to the dentist can help to identify problems before they evolve into something more problematic. The dentist will also clean your teeth properly, reducing plaque and build up in your mouth.
Bad Habits Avoid bad habits such as smoking, which is not only bad for your health but can also stain your teeth and increases the chance of receding gums and gum disease, and reduce snacking in between meals to decrease the amount of sugar that you consume. If you notice a problem don’t ignore it. Delays in treatment could have an impact on your dental hygiene and result in even more expense further down the line.
If you follow the above tips and regularly visit your dentist for a check-up you will be able to maintain optimum oral health for longer.