Think of your teeth like a car. If you don’t take care of it and keep up on the maintenance, it’s going to start to deteriorate over time. The same is true for your teeth – if you don’t take care of them, they will not look or feel their best. And you only get one set of teeth! In this blog post, you’ll learn about 10 steps that you can take to help keep your smile looking its best!
Teeth serve two important functions: chewing and help with speaking. They are made of a hard, polished material called enamel that helps to protect them from wear and tear. Teeth also help to shape the facial structure by providing a platform for our jaws to rest on, which is important for a number of reasons including speaking and eating. Teeth also play an important role in our overall oral health and hygiene. Teeth that are not well looked after can cause bacteria to reach other parts of the body and lead to further medical complications.
So what are the 10 key things you should be doing proactively to take good care of your teeth?
1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day
It is important to brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This helps to remove plaque and food that can get stuck between your teeth, as well as freshen your breath. Make sure to use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for two full minutes each time. Watch some instructional videos online to refresh your memory of the best brushing technique. We all think we know how to brush our teeth, but many people fall into bad habits over time, and brushing too hard can cause issues too.
2. Floss Your Teeth Every Day
Flossing is an important part of any oral care routine. Flossing helps to remove plaque and food particles in between your teeth that you can’t reach with a regular toothbrush. Be sure to floss at least once a day and be gentle when you are doing it, as it can be easy to damage the gums if you floss too hard. Interdental brushes are also an effective way to get in between your teeth and help to remove plaque.
3. Use a Mouthwash
Mouthwash is a great way to reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth. Look for an alcohol-free, antimicrobial mouthwash that is specifically designed for oral care. Be sure to swish it around in your mouth for the full amount of time indicated on the label, usually 30 seconds to one minute.
4. Visit a Dentist Regularly
Seeing a dentist regularly is an important part of any oral care routine. Your dentist can detect issues before they become too serious and help to keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy. Most dentists recommend that you visit at least twice a year, but ask your dentist what they recommend for your specific needs. And if you don’t currently have a dentist, search for a dentist near me and register with one. The sooner you start going regularly, the better off your oral health will be.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking is one of the leading causes of gum disease and can lead to other oral health problems, such as tooth decay and bad breath. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral health, so if you are a smoker, consider quitting as soon as possible.
6. Eat Healthy Foods
Eating a balanced diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Foods such as apples, carrots, and celery help to stimulate saliva production which can help to reduce plaque and bacteria. Avoid sugary and starchy foods, as these can promote tooth decay.
7. Reduce Stress
Stress has been linked to a number of oral health issues, such as gum disease and tooth grinding. Take time to relax and reduce stress in your life as much as possible to help keep your oral health in check.
8. Avoid Too Much Alcohol
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to dry mouth, which can increase the risk of cavities and other oral health problems. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and make sure to stay hydrated with water in between drinks.
9. Avoid Grinding Your Teeth
Grinding your teeth can cause a number of issues, including chipping, cracking or worn down teeth. If you notice that you are grinding your teeth, try to find ways to relax and reduce stress, as this is usually the cause of grinding. Speak to your dentist if you need help managing this issue. You may not even realize you grind your teeth until your dentist points out the signs of it. A very tight jaw can be another signal that you might be grinding your teeth. Many people with this problem get a night guard from their dentist to help them prevent damage from grinding.
10. Wear a Mouth Guard
If you participate in contact sports or other activities that could put your teeth at risk, make sure to wear a mouthguard. Mouthguards help to protect your teeth and gums from any potential injuries that could occur. Speak to your dentist to get fitted for a custom-made mouthguard that is tailored to your mouth size and shape. This will provide the best protection and fit.
These are just some of the basic steps you can take to protect your oral health. Following these tips can help to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy and strong. However, it is still important to visit a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist will be able to detect and address any potential issues before they become more serious.