Several years of research states that oral hygiene is one of the most important health measures that one should maintain. The lack of proper oral hygiene might cause problems like bad breath, stained teeth, gum inflammation, cavities and plaque. But it doesn't stop here. These small problems might lead to severe diseases like dementia, diabetes, heart ailments and respiratory infections.
Here are some easy tips for you to maintain your oral health:
1. Brush at least twice a day
We have been listening to this advice since our childhood but many of us don't follow it regularly. But it's high time now that we should get used to this. Dentists advise that we should brush after every meal and floss. If not every meal, make sure that you brush twice a day after your main meal. Do not forget to brush your gum line as well. It helps in cleaning the acid build up in your mouth and removes stuck or leftover food particles. This also reduces bad breath causing germs. Try to replace your toothbrush every two to three months. If you use a toothbrush for a long time, the bristles break down and loose their effectiveness in getting to all those tricky corners around your teeth.
2. Use mouthwash alongside brushing
A mouthwash helps us in maintaining fresh breath and stronger teeth. It is an effective tool in the fight against tooth decay, gingivitis, as well as the promotion of healthy gums. It also serves the purpose better when you do your bit by brushing and flossing etc.
3. Clean your tongue
Every morning when you are brushing your teeth do not forget to scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper to decrease the bacteria, fungi, and dead cells that can cause bad breath. It also helps to eliminate undigested food particles from the tongue promoting overall oral and digestive health.
4. Avoid excess consumption of caffeine, sodas and cola
Coffee and tea stain teeth while those acidic and sweet energy drinks or sodas erode our tooth enamel and can cause tooth decay. These are capable of staining your teeth permanently. Eliminating these beverages results in whiter and healthier teeth.
5. Have fibrous fruits and vegetables
It is said that healthy living has always been associated with eating fruits and vegetables. Vegetables and fruits, especially the fibrous ones, promote good dental health, so include them in your daily diet. One should consume fibrous fruits such as apples and carrots as it helps in providing your mouth with a good scrub. It also leads to secretion of saliva in the mouth that eventually helps in rinsing away food particles and germs.
6. Consume calcium in abundance
A diet with the right amount of calcium ensures that we will have strong teeth and healthy bones. A new study from the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) has found that cheese protects your teeth from acid erosion, caused by coffee, tea, wine, soda, etc. It contributes in lowering the chances of getting cavities and it also strengthens the teeth enamel while providing you with calcium and proteins.
7. Remove your dentures
If you wear dentures, make sure that you remove them at night and clean your mouth to get rid of the bacterial buildup from food and drink. You should give your mouth a good rinse and then massage your gums with a washcloth or a soft toothbrush.
Apart from following these tips, drink enough water to maintain the cleanliness of your mouth and to cut down bad breath. You should visit your dentist at least twice a year to have a full hygiene treatment performed.