But oral health is much more than gum disease. Studies have shown a connection between the condition of a person's mouth and overall health. Experts believe that oral health issues as a health issue that is a Trusted Source.
If not treated, tooth decay or gum issues can cause pain, issues in self-esteem, and even tooth loss. These issues can cause speech, malnutrition, and other difficulties in academic, professional, or private life.
Patients can avoid these issues by taking care of their teeth at home and at the dentist's office. Here are some of the best methods to keep your gums and teeth in good condition.
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1. Make sure to brush regularly, but not overly
Daily brushing and floss for dental hygiene can help keep your teeth and gums in good condition.
Many people know that brushing your teeth twice daily is among the most effective methods to get rid of plaque and bacteria and keep your teeth clean. But, it is possible for brushing to be effective if you use the right method.
The best way to brush is with tiny circular motions, and take particular care to brush the front, back, and top of each tooth. The process should take between 2 to 3 minutes. The best way to avoid this is to use back-and-forth motions.
Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with a hard bristle can cause damage to gums and tooth enamel. The results of this can be tooth sensitivity, harm to the enamel of the teeth, and gum erosion.
The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests using a soft bristle toothbrush. The ADA also recommends that individuals change their toothbrushes every three months when the ends appear rough or when the bristles appear frayed.
2. Utilize fluoride
Fluoride is a mineral in the earth's soil known as fluorine. Numerous scientists believe fluoride can help keep cavities at bay and is an ingredient that is commonly found in mouthwash and toothpaste.
Certain dental products do not contain fluoride, and some individuals do not even use the substance at all.
Evidence suggests that a lack of fluoride could cause tooth decay regardless of whether a person is taking proper care of their teeth. A recent study discovered that flossing and brushing are not enough to stop trusted sources' possibility of developing cavities even if they don't use fluoride.
Several communities in the United States have added fluoride to their water sources. Many organizations have recommended this practice Trusted Source, including The World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the ADA.
It is possible to determine if their water has fluoride by contacting their local government. Reverse Osmosis water filters get rid of fluoride. People who consume water from wells will be required to examine the levels of fluoride present in the water to figure out the amount of fluoride present. Most bottled water brands don't contain fluoride.
3. You should floss once a day
Flossing removes plaque and bacteria that have built up between the teeth, a place that toothbrushes cannot reach. It also helps to prevent bad breath by getting rid of food particles and other debris trapped between teeth.
Even though there's no evidence of studies that prove flossing can be beneficial, the ADA continues to advocate flossing. According to the CDC Trusted Source, individuals should brush their teeth regularly.
Most dental professionals suggest gently pushing floss down to the gumline before rubbing the tooth's side with upward and downward motions. Staying clear of snapping the floss upwards and downwards between teeth is crucial. This could cause pain and not be able to remove plaque as effectively.
4. See a dentist regularly
A dentist can identify and treat oral health problems before they get serious.
Experts suggest that people visit an appointment with a dentist every six months to have a checkup. In a regular dental exam, a hygienist will scrub the teeth, removing tartar and plaque that has accumulated.
The dentist will look for signs of visible gum disease, dental cavities, mouth cancer, gum disease, and other issues with oral health. They might also employ dental X-rays to look for cavities.
A recent study showed that kids and teens need to see a dentist at least every six months to avoid cavities. However, adults who maintain regular dental hygiene and are at a lower likelihood of suffering from oral health issues could be able to go to the dentist less often.
The authors of a new reviewTrusted Source say the requirement for more studies of high quality to establish the appropriate frequency for dental exams.
Patients can talk to their dentist about the frequency they should have a checkup. The answer will vary based on the individual's history of health, age, and overall dental health. But anyone noticing changes to their mouth needs to see the dentist.
5. Do not smoke
Smoking causes damage to the body's immune system, which makes it harder in the healing process of its tissues, which include those of the mouth. The CDC declares smoking to be the leading cause of gum diseaseTrusted Source and the ADA cautions that those who smoke can suffer from slow healing following an oral procedure.
Smoking can affect the appearance of your mouth, causing discoloration of teeth and tongue. It also may cause breath to have a foul smell.
Also Read The Best and Worst Foods for Your Teeth
6. Take a look at the possibility of using a mouthwash
Certain studies suggest that certain mouthwashes are beneficial to oral health. One study discovered that mouthwashes contain chlorhexidine, an antibacterial component that helps reduce gingivitis and plaque. Mouthwashes containing essential oils also work according to an analysis of meta-analyses.
It is possible to ask their dentist what is the most suitable mouthwash to meet their requirements. The mouthwash isn't a substitute for flossing and brushing. However, it can be used in conjunction with these practices.
Mouthwashes to help with the bad smell and tooth issues are available online.
7. Reduce the amount of starch and sugary food.
Sugar intake can result in cavities. The research continues to demonstrate sugar's important role in negative dental health effects. The most frequent culprits are candy and desserts. However, most processed foods have added sugar.
The WHO recommends that people restrict the amount of sugar they consume to less than 10 percent of the calories they consume daily. The researchers of a systematic study concluded that reducing this limit to 5 percent could lower the risk of developing cavitiesTrusted Sources, and other dental problems.
Experts have also said that foods with starch, such as crackers, chips, bread, and pasta, could lead to tooth decay. The ADA says that such meals remain in the mouth for a while and then break down into simple sugars where acid-producing bacteria feed. The acid may cause tooth decay.
Instead of eating starchy food, the ADA suggests eating plenty of vegetables and fruits high in fiber and dairy products that do not contain added sugar.
8. Take a drink of water and avoid sweet drinks
Sugar-sweetened drinks are the number one source of added sugars. In the diet of the U.S., Consuming soda, juice, or other drinks that contain sugar can result in a greater chance of developing cavities.
The ADA advises drinking unsweetened tea or water throughout the day. The ADA recommends drinking only drinks with sugar added at meals and in small quantities.
Summary
A good dental hygiene routine from childhood to adulthood will aid in keeping gums and teeth healthy. Regularly flossing and brushing, not smoking, consuming healthy food, and getting regular dental exams can help patients avoid gum disease, cavities, and other dental problems. It can also help their overall health.
