Your oral health is an important part of your overall health. Your mouth is connected to the rest of your body. So, what happens in your mouth can also affect the rest of your body. Good oral health involves taking care of your teeth, gums, and mouth to keep them healthy and free of any diseases. Good oral health means you have a healthy mouth, teeth, and gums. Here are a few practices you should follow to ensure the health of your teeth and mouth.
- Follow good oral hygiene habits
It is very important to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly will greatly reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, helping to keep your mouth healthy for the long term. Brush your teeth at least twice per day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Brushing your teeth removes food debris and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. Flossing your teeth at least once a day will help to prevent plaque buildup between the teeth. Plaque that is not removed by brushing and flossing can eventually harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
- Regular dental visits
A great way to keep your teeth and gums healthy is to visit your dentist regularly. These regular visits are important because they allow your dentist to spot any early signs of tooth decay or gum disease, both of which can be remedied if they are discovered early on. Visiting your dentist regularly is also vital to the maintenance of your oral health.
- Eat a nutritious diet and limit between-meal snacks
A nutritious diet is important for overall as well as oral health. Certain foods, such as apples and cheese, can neutralize acid and protect against tooth decay. However, it’s best to avoid sugary foods, sticky foods, and starchy foods. These foods cling to the teeth and can increase the risk of a cavity.
- Quit smoking
Cigarettes contain ingredients that are very harmful to oral health. Smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, which can make it more difficult for gums to heal after they have been damaged. Smoking also increases a person’s risk of developing gum disease, oral cancer, and tooth decay. So, it is important to quit the smoking habit at the earliest.
- Avoid or limit alcohol consumption
If you’re serious about maintaining optimal oral health, you need to commit to avoiding or limiting your alcohol consumption. While the occasional drink may not be harmful to your oral health, consistent alcohol consumption is. Acidic drinks, such as wine, vinegar, and soda, can erode the enamel on your teeth, causing tooth sensitivity, discoloration, and cavities. Sugary drinks, such as beer, cocktails, and soft drinks, are high in sugar. If you drink them often, sugar will remain on your teeth, feeding the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Alcohol also dehydrates you. By drinking, you are increasing the risk of dry mouth, which can put you at a higher risk of developing cavities. If you’re ready to commit to avoiding alcohol, today is the perfect day to start.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports or participating in activities involving physical contact
Wearing a mouthguard when playing sports or participating in activities involving physical contact is very important to prevent facial injuries that are very serious and can involve disfigurement and loss of teeth.
Our dentists at Rand Center for Dentistry in Flanders, NJ, provide the best dentistry solutions and the best dental care for patients. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call (973) 370-8917.
