Our oral health is incredibly important for our overall physical and mental wellness. It is because our mouths are one of the first places our bodies show signs of systemic or autoimmune diseases. For instance, bad breath indicates an upset stomach or oral infection, and gum disease can lead to other health problems. And so, it’s essential to ensure that we take good care of them.

Properly taking care of our oral health involves more than just brushing and flossing. Some states even require seeing a dentist twice a year for regular check-ups. Utah, for example, requires that we get an oral exam every six months. 

With that said, here are some tips to help you maintain your oral health:

Be Proactive:

 

Studies claim that 65% of children in Utah experience dental cavities by the age of 9. It’s why the voices for Utah Children’s Oral Health made changes to the Medicaid dental program. These changes increased access to dental care for children in low-income families. 

It’s not just about kids; adults should also be proactive with oral health. For instance, if you’re facing overcrowding or have severe pain due to wisdom teeth, consider getting them removed sooner rather than later. If you’re in South Jordan, Utah, you can easily find several dentists who specialize in wisdom teeth extraction. Besides, if you want to know the wisdom teeth removal cost in South Jordan, you can contact dental clinics directly and ask. It’s also a good idea to ask friends or family for referrals.

 

Visit the Dentist Regularly:

Dentists are the best people to help you maintain good oral health. Whether it’s a regular check-up, teeth cleaning, or a specific dental procedure, visiting the dentist regularly is vital. Not only will your dentist be able to spot potential problems early, but they can also give you essential advice to look after your teeth and gums.

When choosing a dentist, make sure that you select someone whom you feel comfortable with. If you want specific treatments like teeth whitening, look for a dentist who specializes in that area. 

Clean Your Tongue:

Do you know that your tongue is home to approximately 80% bacteria in your mouth? The tongue is covered with numerous grooves and crevices, making it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. When these bacteria come in contact with food particles, they form plaque and cause tooth decay. To avoid this, use a tongue cleaner or brush once a day to remove bacteria and food particles. You can also use a scraper to do the job. Move the tongue cleaner or brush in a gentle, circular motion to ensure that all areas of your tongue are cleaned.

Avoid Sugary Foods and Beverages:

It’s no secret that certain foods and beverages can cause oral health issues. Sodas, candy, and other sugary treats are the main culprits. The most common problem with excessive sugar consumption is tooth decay, which can lead to pain and sensitivity. To prevent this, limit your sugary foods and beverages and opt for healthier options. The foods best for your teeth include dairy products, crunchy vegetables, nuts, and whole grains.

Stay Hydrated:

How many glasses of water do you drink in a day? Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining oral health. Water helps produce saliva, which is crucial for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids. Saliva also contains minerals that help strengthen tooth enamel.

Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day is a good idea. If you’re not a fan of plain water, try adding natural fruit or vegetable juices in your diet. In this way, you’ll get the essential nutrients and vitamins your body needs while keeping yourself hydrated.

Use Fluoride Toothpaste:

Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps to strengthen tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities. Most kinds of toothpaste contain fluoride, but it’s best to opt for ones with higher concentrations. You can also use mouthwashes with fluoride for further protection against cavities and gum disease. Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste for the best results. Also, consider gargling with mouthwash after every meal.

Floss Regularly:

When it comes to maintaining good oral health, brushing your teeth isn’t enough. You also need to floss regularly. What is flossing? In flossing, you use a thin string to clean plaque and bacteria between your teeth and gum line. Not only does it help to prevent cavities, but it also helps to keep your breath fresh and prevents gum disease. To floss correctly, use a back-and-forth motion with the string and ensure that you cover all surfaces. Be gentle, though. You don’t want to hurt your gums. Once a day should be enough, but you can do it more often if needed.

Avoid Smoking Too Often:

The health effects of smoking are well-versed. From cancer to heart disease, smoking can cause various medical issues. But did you know that it can also affect your oral health? Smoking increases the risk of developing gum disease and can cause discoloration of your teeth. Additionally, it also increases the risk of tooth decay and mouth cancer. If you’re a smoker, try to limit your intake as much as possible. You can try chewing gum or nicotine patches to help manage the cravings. If you’re an avid smoker, consider seeking help from a doctor or specialist.

Use the Right Brush:

There’s a misconception that all toothbrushes are the same. But that’s not true. Different toothbrushes have different bristles and sizes, and there are specifically designed brushes for certain teeth. Opting for a brush with softer bristles is best if you have sensitive gums. You should also ensure that the brush is the right size for your mouth. A large brush can make it difficult to maneuver and can cause damage to your teeth and gums.

You can also opt to use an electric toothbrush. These toothbrushes are more effective at removing plaque and can help to give you a deeper clean. Additionally, they also come with timers which can help you make sure that you brush for the recommended duration of two minutes.

Conclusion:

Oral health is just as important as physical health. Proper hygiene can help ensure that your teeth stay healthy and strong. Plus, it boosts your self-confidence and makes you look and feel better.

Hence, if you want to preserve your oral health, make sure that you pay attention to your gums and teeth. You must also follow the above tips to maintain good oral hygiene.

Good oral health habits will go a long way in keeping your overall well-being in check.