Keeping your teeth not to mention your gums nice and healthy needs to be a priority. Yet for many people, it’s a chore. One they even ignore or don’t do well because it just doesn’t seem all that important in the moment. It’s only when there’s a problem that they realise looking after their teeth should have been high on their to-do list. If you want to ensure you don’t end up in that position keep reading. Here we’ll discuss waysvto keep your teeth and gums healthy.
VISIT A DENTIST REGULARLY
Dentists hold the key to good oral health, so visiting yours regularly is one of the best things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It’s recommended that you go to the dentist every six months. Even if there’s nothing wrong it allows your dentist to spot any problems well before they become painful and difficult to treat.
During these visits, you can also get your teeth cleaned professionally. This will give you a great headstart on your cleaning twice daily. Plus they’ll be able to advise you about what to do to keep things in check in your mouth – that could make all the difference.
USE THE RIGHT TOOTHBRUSH
Everyone knows it’s vital to brush their teeth at least twice a day if you want to keep them in the best condition. Were you aware that using the right toothbrush makes a difference? It can ensure your oral health is taken care of better.
The best thing to do is to use a soft-bristled brush because hard bristles can irritate your gums and damage enamel. It’s also wise to make sure the head of the toothbrush is small enough to reach all the areas of your mouth. The best option is an electric toothbrush, but if your budget won’t cover a good one, using the right manual option is the next best thing. Remember, you’ll need to replace your toothbrush (or the head if it’s electric) about every three to four months for hygiene reasons and to ensure you’re still cleaning your teeth effectively.
USE MOUTHWASH
Although brushing your teeth is important – essential – you can make the process more effective by using mouthwash twice a day as well. Mouthwash can reach areas that brushing might not get to. It can also help prevent gum disease and a big buildup of plaque. Plus, mouthwash will keep your breath fresh and leave your mouth feeling clean, which is a positive thing in general. Try to find one without alcohol as it’s better for your health.
When you are choosing a mouthwash, pick an antimicrobial or a fluoride option for the best results. Always follow the instructions on the bottle about how often to use it and for how long.
EAT LESS SUGAR
All of these things are fantastic ways to clean your teeth and keep them healthy. Yet what can make another huge difference is eating less sugar, to begin with. This means less damage will be done in general, and that’s good for your oral health.
If you’re craving something sweet, go for fruit rather than sugary snacks or desserts. Make sure to drink plenty of water after meals to wash away any sugar that might be clinging to the surface of your teeth. It’s great to treat yourself to something nice occasionally. When you do, try to clean your teeth as soon as you can afterwards to minimize the damage.