Maintaining proper gum health is essential to a healthy set of teeth, so let’s go over the basics of proper gum health.
Proper oral hygiene is an essential part of our daily lives, and many people have a different idea of what proper oral hygiene is. This is why we thought it was appropriate to provide the most important, yet basic, daily regimen to maintain healthy oral health. We looked over the top five dentist recommended steps that you can do at home and implement into your existing daily oral hygiene regimen, so that you can have confidence in maintaining a smile that gleams for miles. Let’s go over the most important but simple things you can do to keep a healthy mouth, with a smile to be proud of.
1: Brush Regularly
Brushing three times each day will remove plaque that naturally builds up by consuming different foods and drinks, and will assist in the removal of bacteria as well, all of which can lead to tooth erosion and unhealthy gums caused by excess bacteria. Brushing the tongue or using a tongue scraper can also assist in the removal of bacteria within the mouth; if you use a toothbrush, make sure to brush lightly. You may find it helpful to purchase an electric toothbrush, which will speed up the brushing process, while still doing a great job at brushing the teeth.
2: Floss Daily
Flossing is also an important regimen to implement into your daily oral care routine. Flossing removes both plaque and food that cannot be reached by a toothbrush, helping to prevent enamel erosion caused by plaque buildup around lodged foods. Flossing is just as crucial as brushing the teeth, so do not push this aside.
3: Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash is one of the best products that you should implement into your daily routine due to its ability to reach all areas of the mouth. Some mouthwash also contains an antiseptic, which helps to kill bacteria and prevent other oral diseases, such as Gingivitis. Plus, many mouthwashes leave a lasting fresh taste and smell in the mouth.
4: Limit Sugar & Acidic Food/Drinks
Many people think that drinking sodas and eating foods high in acidic properties is fine, as long as they brush and floss regularly. Although proper oral hygiene helps to reduce damage done by sugar and acid, it does not prevent it. It only takes 30 minutes for a soda to start wreaking havoc on teeth. In addition, the caffeine content causes less saliva, leading to more bacteria and plaque build-up.
5: See Your Dentist Regularly
Visiting your dentist is crucial to maintaining proper oral health; not only because he or she can recommend customized oral hygiene habits, but because the dentist can spot any risk or diseases, such as Gingivitis, that you are unaware of. This will also give your dentist a chance to make sure any cavities that you may have are filled, and will allow you to receive a cleaning. You should see your dentist once to twice each year.