Good oral hygiene is necessary to keep teeth and gums healthy. Gum Disease is however less common today compared to the past. It still affects 2 in 10 Indian adults by the time they reach the age of 45-50 years. If you don’t brush twice a day and floss everyday, you could also be susceptible to other health conditions that affect heart health, lung health and nutritional health.
We’ve put together 5 easy to follow lifestyle practices that can assist you to maintain pristine oral health:
- Brush regularly but not aggressively
Most people are aware that brushing their teeth twice a day is one of the most important practices for removing plaque and bacteria and keeping teeth clean. However, brushing may only be effective if people use the correct technique.
People should brush using small circular motions, taking care to brush the front, back, and top of every tooth. This process takes between 2 and 3 minutes. People should avoid sawing back-and-forth motions.
Brushing too hard or using a hard-bristled toothbrush can damage tooth enamel and the gums. The effect of this may include tooth sensitivity, permanent damage to the protective enamel on the teeth, and gum erosion.
- Floss once a day
Flossing can remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth, which a toothbrush is unable to reach. It can also help prevent bad breath by removing debris and food that has become trapped between the teeth.
- See a dentist regularly
Experts recommend that people see a dentist every 6 months for a checkup. During a routine dental examination, a hygienist will clean the teeth and remove plaque and hardened tartar. The dentist will check for visual signs of cavities, gum disease, mouth cancer, and other oral health issues. They may sometimes also use dental X-rays to check for cavities.
The results of a recent study confirmed that children and adolescents should see a dentist every 6 months to help prevent cavities. However, adults who practice good dental hygiene every day and have a low risk of oral health problems may be able to go less frequently.
- Consider a mouthwash
Some studies indicate that certain mouthwashes can benefit oral health. For example, one review found that mouthwash containing chlorhexidine, an antibacterial ingredient, helps control plaque and gingivitis. You can also consider rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash daily.
Mouthwashes with certain essential oils are also effective, according to a meta-analysis. People may wish to ask their dentist which is the best mouthwash for their individual needs. Mouthwash cannot substitute brushing and flossing, but it can complement these practices.
- Drink water instead of sugary drinks
Sugar-sweetened beverages are the number one source of added sugars. Trusted sources in the typical diet of those in India sipping on soda, juice, or other sugary drinks can lead to a higher risk of cavities. Eat a balanced diet. A recent study in men age 45-50 years and older showed a special benefit of eating a diet rich in high-fiber fruit, which appears to slow the progression of periodontal disease.
These are just a few tips that can help you maintain good teeth and gums!
Get your oral health checkup at Credence Dental from our expert dentists to understand the precautions you would need to take to ensure your teeth are in good shape.
Call us or Whatsapp us at +91-9141160212 to book an appointment today!
