Top Tips for Excellent Oral Health

Oral health is more than taking care of your teeth, and it is also not just about your gums. Excellent oral health translates to better physical and mental health. Thus, it is crucial to take proper steps to achieve excellent oral health. The good news is that it is not difficult to do this. However, it takes a lot of discipline.

 

Here are some top tips for excellent oral health.

 

Brush Regularly

People know that it is vital to brush their teeth twice a day. However, few do it. Brushing is only effective if you do it at least twice daily, using the correct technique. Make sure to brush your teeth after every meal if you can. It helps remove the remaining food particles and plaque.

 

Check Your Technique

As you brush, you need to apply the correct technique. Use small circular motions instead of sawing back and forth. Brush the front, back, and top of every tooth. The whole process should take about two to three minutes.

Check Your Bristles

Tough bristles will damage your tooth enamel and hurt your gums. It may result in tooth sensitivity, bleeding, and inflammation of the gums. Get a toothbrush with soft or medium bristles. As you use it, note when the ends start to fray. It means that you need to change it. Otherwise, change your toothbrush every three months.

Flossing

Flossing removes food particles and plaque between the teeth. It prevents bad breath and the formation of cavities. It is also a way to stimulate your gums and lower inflammation. Make sure you floss at least once a day, especially in the evening. You will reap lasting benefits from this habit. Push the floss to the gumline before hugging the side of the tooth with up and down motions.

Use Fluoride

Fluoride is a common ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash. It helps prevent cavities. However, some dental products do not contain fluoride. Thus, make sure that the dental products you buy contain fluoride. Brushing and flossing will not prevent cavities if the products you are using do not contain fluoride.


 

Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash helps control plaque and gum disease. The most efficient are those that contain an antibacterial ingredient. However, using mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing or flossing. It complements these practices. It also helps prevent bad breath.

Eat Fruits and Vegetables

Eating fruits and vegetables is healthy for your body. It will stimulate your gums. They have healthy fiber—unlike ready-to-eat food—that gets your jaws working. Processed food has sugar that converts into acid in your mouth. The acid erodes your enamel and results in cavities. You do not have to quit eating them. However, be mindful when you eat them.

See a Dentist Regularly

Make sure that you make appointments for dental checkups twice a year. During the checkups, your dentist will clean your teeth as they look for cavities. They will also spot other potential problems and advise you on which preventive measures to take. If your dental insurance covers more frequent dental checkups, take advantage of it.

For more on top tips for excellent oral health, contact Fei Hwang, D.D.S. Milpitas Family and Cosmetic Dentist at our office in Milpitas, California. You can call us at (408) 729-7882 to book an appointment today.