A Quick Checklist From Dentists to Maintain Your Oral Health

Do you want to maintain healthy teeth and gums? Get proper oral hygiene. While occasional dental check-ups are essential, it is the daily care practices that make a significant difference in the long run. In this blog, we will discuss 21 regular care practices that you should follow to maintain optimal dental health and preserve your precious smile.

Brush twice a day: Most dentists recommend brushing teeth twice a day because it helps to maintain good oral hygiene.

Go one step further and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth. Also, you can use fluoride toothpaste to add more to your oral hygiene. This can also help in removing plaque and preventing cavities.

Floss daily: Alongside brushing, daily flossing is crucial for removing plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline. It helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Use mouthwash: Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. There are many types of mouthwash options available in the market that contains fluoride for added protection against cavities.

Proper brushing technique: One of the best brushing techniques that most dentists advise is to hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and make circular motions gently. Be thorough and spend at least two minutes brushing all surfaces of your teeth.

Change your toothbrush: Dentists advise that you must replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner. Especially if the bristles become frayed, it becomes even more important to replace your toothbrush. Bristles that are worn out are less effective in cleaning your teeth.

Clean your tongue: Use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush to gently clean your tongue every day. This removes bacteria and helps maintain fresh breath.

Limit sugary and acidic foods: Sugary and acidic foods contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion. Instead, you must increase your intake of healthier alternatives like fruits & vegetables.

Drink water throughout the day: Water helps rinse away food particles and maintains saliva production, which aids in neutralizing acids and protecting teeth from decay.

Avoid tobacco products: You must avoid smoking or using tobacco products because they can cause many dental problems such as gum disease, and sometimes stained teeth. Quitting tobacco is a must if you want to maintain overall oral and general health.

Limit alcohol consumption: Similar to tobacco usage, excessive alcohol consumption can also dry out your mouth. If you drink too much alcohol, it can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Therefore, you must drink alcohol in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

Wear a mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth from injury and prevent teeth grinding-related problems.

Visit your dentist regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital for detecting and preventing oral health issues. Aim for at least two visits per year, or as recommended by your dentist.

Get dental X-rays when necessary: Why dental X-rays? Well, dental X-rays can help your dentist to identify hidden dental problems. These problems could include cavities, impacted teeth, and bone loss. Follow your dentist’s recommendations for X-ray frequency.

Brush your teeth before bed: Many people don’t follow this advice. Brushing your teeth before going to bed can do wonders like reducing the risk of tooth decay & gum disease. It’s because brushing your teeth at night can help remove the accumulated plaque and bacteria from the day.

Use fluoride toothpaste: Why fluoride? Well, it strengthens your tooth enamel. Fluoride also makes your enamel more resistant to decay. Therefore you must choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride and has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval.

Avoid using your teeth as tools: Your teeth are designed for biting and chewing food, not for opening packages or biting nails. Using your teeth as tools can cause chips, cracks, and other dental problems.

Practice proper nutrition: Healthy nutrition is one of the best things that you could do to maintain your oral health. Therefore, it would be a great idea to contact a nutritionist as a well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Include foods like dairy products, lean proteins, and leafy greens in your diet.

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