When it comes to staying healthy, the first things that would probably come to your mind are eating right and staying hydrated. You may also think about doing exercises or getting enough sleep.
That said, maintaining oral hygiene may be the last thing that will occur to you. However, it’s worth mentioning that how you take care of your teeth and gums also impacts other aspects of your wellbeing. Failing to keep your mouth healthy can lead to pain, dental issues, tooth loss, and even problems with self-confidence. It can also bring about malnutrition and speech problems.
It is for these reasons that you must strive to look after your oral health regularly. The good news is that, while this may sound like a lot of work, it does not have to be a complicated endeavor!
In the sections below, you’ll learn four of the many simple ways you can keep your teeth and gums healthy:
1. Brush Your Teeth Regularly
This advice may seem common sense, but it’s so essential to your oral health that it cannot be stressed enough.
Brushing your teeth regularly with ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste effectively removes bacteria from your mouth. It’s also helpful in keeping plaque from building up in your pearly whites and causing tooth decay and gum disease.
For the best results, brush your teeth at least twice a day and replace your toothbrush when the bristles start to fray.
2. Floss Daily
Along with brushing your teeth, you must also make it a point to floss daily.
While brushing may have removed a significant amount of bacteria, plaque, and food particles, some may still remain—especially those in hard-to-reach areas. This is where daily flossing becomes particularly helpful.
Flossing targets the tight spaces between your teeth and removes remaining particles. When done regularly, this can help further reduce the likelihood of developing tooth decay and gum disease.
If you aren’t quite sure on how to floss properly, you may ask your dentist for a quick demonstration on your next appointment.
3. Maintain a Healthy Diet
What goes into your body not only affects your physical fitness but also your oral health. For this reason, you must pay attention to the foods you consume.
As much as possible, strive to eat a balanced diet to get all the nutrients that you need. Drink plenty of water and eat a varied diet. Ultimately, limit your sugar intake to keep your pearly whites strong and healthy.
4. See Your Dentist at Least Once a Year
You don’t need to have any dental issues or problems to visit your dentist. Regardless of how you’re feeling, it’s still a good idea to schedule a dental appointment at least once a year for checkups. These regular dental cleanings and exams help you keep your teeth and gums truly clean. On top of that, they help you detect dental problems before they worsen.
If you haven’t been keeping up with your dental appointments, it’s never too late to change your habits. Seek preventive dentistry as soon as possible to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.
Conclusion
These practices may seem simple, but they go a long way in keeping your teeth and gums in optimal condition. They also help reduce the risks of developing dental problems and other related complications. Ultimately, they save you from the pain, hassle, and costly expenses you may encounter with dental treatments for serious issues!
Looking for a local dentist in Ypsilanti, MI that you know you can rely on? We’re the ones for you! At Dental House MI, we strive to provide an environment that is both welcoming and personable. On top of that, we practice all aspects of dentistry with special care. Visit our website to make an appointment today!