Keeping on top of your oral hygiene should be on your top agenda. Here are some of the best ways to ensure that your mouth stays healthy.
Brush your teeth regularly
It is important to brush your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste; once in the morning and once before going to bed. Spend a full two minutes gently brushing all the surfaces of your teeth and tongue. Take your time to remove plaque – plaque takes 12 hours to deposit on the teeth surfaces and transform into bacteria, which can attack your enamel or harden into tartar.
Keep your mouth in check
Visit the dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. This will allow your dentist to notify you of problems and conditions such as decay and gum disease.
Don’t forget to floss
Flossing is not just a way to get those little pieces of food stuck in between your teeth, it’s a way to stimulate the gums, reduce plaque and help lower inflammation in that area.
Skip the soda
Apart from being linked to other health complications, soda consumption proves to be a main contributor to tooth decay. Sugar in soda combines with bacteria in your mouth to form acid, which attacks the teeth. Diet or “sugar-free” soda contains its own acid, which also can damage teeth. Each attack lasts about 20 minutes and starts over with every sip of soda you take.
These ongoing acid attacks weaken tooth enamel. Kids and teens are most susceptible to tooth decay because their tooth enamel is not fully developed. Switch to water instead, adding flavor with sliced citrus or crushed berries or mint leaves.
Limit sugary foods
As mentioned, sugar converts into acid in the mouth, which can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids are what lead to cavities. Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee can also wear down tooth enamel. While you don’t necessarily have to avoid such foods altogether, it doesn’t hurt to be mindful.
Stay hydrated
Drink more water. Water continues to be the best beverage for your overall health — including oral health. This can help rinse some of the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes.