Oral health isn’t just brushing your teeth. There are collective oral health habits that you need to adopt as part of your lifestyle in order for your pearly whites to shine. There is a misconception that if you look after your teeth then your oral health is strong. This is incorrect. Your oral health is more than just your teeth. It is your gums, jawbone and mouth functioning, the structure that helps to keep your teeth firmly in place.
Adopting certain oral health habits will ensure that you can smile confidently without any problems.
Start brushing up on these oral health habits today.
Practice The Correct Brushing Technique
When brushing your teeth, it is important that you adopt the correct technique. Many people make the mistake of overzealous brushing. It is important that you brush your teeth gently in a circular motion from the front to the back. Direct your toothbrush at an angle so that your brush accumulates the bacteria on your gums as well, not just your teeth. Brushing too hard can cause tooth and gum sensitivity.
Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly
The soft bristles on your toothbrush have a shelf life. When the bristles become soft, they can no longer accumulate any bacteria. Instead, the damaged bristles spread the bacteria around your teeth and gums. If bacteria spread, this can escalate decay and eventual tooth loss. To avoid this, always replace your toothbrush within 3 to 4 months of using it. Click here to learn more.
Floss Your Teeth
Food can naturally become stuck in between your teeth. If food stays stuck, this can cause dental plaque build-up, a sticky bacterial substance that coats your teeth. As part of your oral routine, floss your teeth after brushing. Place the floss film between each gap one at a time to remove any food.
Always Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
The bristles on your toothbrush accumulate millions of bacteria every day. After brushing your teeth, it is important that you clean it thoroughly and store it in an upright position so it becomes dry until the next time you brush. It is also important that you place your toothbrush away from others to prevent any cross-contamination.
Use A Tongue Scraper
One of the first places where bacteria lands in the mouth is on your tongue. The excessive oral bacteria can be removed using a tongue scraper. Doing so will leave your breath feeling fresh and keep your tongue clean as well, limiting danger of bacterial infections down the line.
Reduce Snacking
We all like to snack from time to time, but if you have a snack at night, always brush your teeth after it. Sugary sncks especially can fill your mouth with sugar and bacteria. If you sleep without cleaning your teeth, the bacteria will spread faster in the mouth.
The above oral health habits should be adopted as part of a healthy lifestyle. Doing so will ensure that your teeth and gums remain strong and healthy from dangerous diseases and infection.
Alternatively, you may seek a professional opinion with a dentist. You can do so by contacting us here and check yourself in for an appointment!
