Things No One Tells You About Maintaining Healthy Teeth
There is more to good oral hygiene than flossing and brushing. Since you were old enough to understand how a toothbrush works, you have probably been told to brush and floss at least twice a day.
However, no one really talks about diet, fluoride use, and mouth rinses. Do you know what mouth rinse and toothbrush is right for you? Or that your cheeks need to be cleaned?
Alongside flossing and brushing daily, eating a helpful a healthy diet, not smoking and having regular dental checkups can help you prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental health conditions. And is beneficial for your overall health.
Top five habits for excellent dental health
- Use fluoride
Let’s debunk a myth, fluoride is not just for kids – they are natural minerals that strengthen our enamel, which helps to prevent cavities. You can get fluoride from a couple of sources – mouthwash, toothpaste or an at-home or in-office treatments that your dentist may provide. If you are uncertain about what type of fluoride treatment is right for you, ask your dentist.
- Be mindful of beverages
The beverages you ingest can affect your dental health. Sugary juices and soft drinks are major causes of tooth decay. By simply switching out from soda to fresh juices, milk, and water, you can help improve and protect your teeth.
- Go for regular checkups
A professional dentist is glad to help you with oral care. If you have concerns or questions regarding the health of your teeth, you should always seek their opinion. In addition, it is good practice to go in for regular dental checkups. Your dentist or oral hygienist can also help you create a flossing and brushing plan that is specific to what your teeth needs.
4.Brush your tongue
Brushing your teeth can help fight bacteria in your mouth. Not only is it good for keeping your teeth healthy, but it also helps to prevent bad breath. When buying a toothbrush, try going for the ones that have a cheek and tongue cleaner, so you can easily remove bacteria every time you brush.
- Take care of your toothbrush
Remember to rinse it out well after brushing and keep it in an upright position out in the open. Natural ventilation will help keep your brush dry and reduce the growth of microorganisms that thrive in humid and moist environments. Try to replace them regularly, at least every three or four months – according to the recommendation by the American Dental Association. For young children, you might need to change it out sooner.
However, if your brush gets worn out or has frayed bristles before the 3-month mark, it should be replaced immediately.
What Is the Cause of Yellow Looking Teeth?
There are a couple of factors that can cause teeth to become dull and yellow. The erosion of your outer enamel exposes the dentin underneath which looks yellow or you ingested certain foods and beverages that stain teeth.
This type of discolouration is usually treated with whitening remedies and regular cleaning.
Tips for maintaining your pearly whites
- Avoid food and drinks that can stain your teeth.
Coffee, tea, cigarette smoke, and wine are major teeth staining agents. To stop your teeth from being stained, keep them at a minimum.
- Eat a balanced diet
The food that you drink and eat affects the overall health of your mouth. Therefore, a healthy diet is essential for the health of your teeth. A balanced diet is made up of the right portions of all the classes of food – carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, fats and oil and so on. Endeavour to eat lots of fruits and vegetables, your teeth will thank you for it.
- Reduce alcohol intake
Alcohol can also erode the outer surface of your teeth, if this happens, you may need fillings. In addition, drinking too much alcohol has been linked to the increased risk of developing cancer. What’s even worse is when heavy drinking is combined with smoking – it is estimated that heavy drinkers and smokers have three times increased risk of developing certain cancers than individuals who neither smoke nor drink.
Keep your alcohol intake to the bare minimum and watch your mile and body thank you for it.
