Maintaining healthy teeth and gums requires practicing good oral hygiene.It entails routine dental checkups and brushing twice a day, among other practices.
The following are some best practices that can keep teeth and gums healthy..
1. Brush regularly but not aggressively
Most people know that one of the most crucial habits for keeping teeth clean and free of plaque and bacteria is brushing twice a day Brushing, though,might only work if people apply the right technique. Brushing should be done in small circular strokes, being careful to brush each tooth’s top, rear, and front. Two to three minutes are needed for this process. Its best to refrain from sawing back and forth
2. Floss once a day
Plaque and bacteria that a toothbrush cannot reach between teeth can be removed by flossing.By clearing food particles and debris that have lodged between teeth, it can also aid in the prevention of bad breath.
Most dental health professionals recommend gently pushing the floss all the way down to the gumline before hugging the side of the tooth with up-and-down motions. It is important to avoid snapping the floss up and down between the teeth, which can cause pain and will not remove plaque as effectively.
3. See a dentist regularly
It is advised by experts that people get checked out by a dentist every six months.A hygienist will clean the teeth and remove plaque and hardened tartar during a normal dental examination.The dentist will look for outward indicators of oral health problems such as gum disease, cavities, mouth cancer, and others.Oral X-rays are another tool they occasionally might use to look for cavities.
4. Do not smoke
The immune system is weakened by smoking, which makes it more difficult for the body to repair tissues, including oral tissues.The ADA cautions that smokers may have delayed healing following dental work, and the CDC lists smoking as a risk factor for gum diseaseTrusted Source.Smoking also taints the mouth’s look by yellowing the tongue and teeth and producing an unpleasant breath odor.
5. Drink water instead of sugary drinks
The main source of added sugars is beverages that have been sweetened with sugar.Reliable Source regarding Americans’ normal diets.Consuming sugary beverages such as juice, soda, or other caloric drinks can increase the risk of cavities.The American Dental Association advises against consuming sugar-sweetened beverages during the day and to stick to small amounts of water or unsweetened tea.