Good oral health is important for a number of reasons. First, your oral health has an impact on your physical health. Poor oral health can lead to serious health complications, such as gum disease, tooth loss, and infections. You can also develop heart problems, lung disease, and diabetes. Second, your appearance is impacted by your oral health. If you have healthy teeth and gums, your smile is brighter and more attractive. Third, your oral health can have an impact on your self-confidence and self-esteem. Many adults are very conscious about the appearance of their teeth. If you have good oral health, you are more likely to smile, laugh, and talk with confidence.

Healthy Practices For Maintaining Good Oral Health

• Brush and Floss Properly

Learning to brush and floss properly can help maintain good oral health. Taking proper care of your teeth also prevents cavities, toothaches, and other more serious problems. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. These habits can be difficult to get the hang of, so it’s important to practice the good technique by brushing gently, using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and flossing in between each tooth and under the gum line.

Floss at least once a day. Ideally, you should floss before you go to bed. Flossing before bed ensures food particles don’t sit in your mouth overnight, causing decay.

• Replace Your Toothbrush Every Three Months

Toothbrush bristles become less effective at cleaning teeth and harbor bacteria over time. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. If your toothbrush bristles are frayed, replace the brush as soon as possible.

• See Your Dentist Regularly

Regularly visit your dentist every six months. Your dentist will clean your teeth, examine your teeth and gums, and check for early signs of decay.

• Eat Healthy Foods

Eat a healthy diet to reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. This includes eating foods high in calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, and milk. You should also eat crunchy fruits and vegetables to help stimulate saliva production.

• Avoid Sugary Foods

Reduce your intake of sugary foods, which increase plaque production. Consider substituting sweets with fresh fruit.

• Watch What You Drink

Avoid drinking beverages high in sugar, such as sodas, coffee, and tea. These beverages cause plaque buildup and increase your risk of tooth decay.

• Avoid Harmful Habits

When it comes to your oral health, it is important to avoid harmful habits because they can cause your oral health to deteriorate. Some harmful habits include chewing on ice, using your teeth to open packages, using teeth as tools, and biting your nails.

• Visit your dentist every six months for checkups and cleanings

Visit your dentist every six months for a dental examination and teeth cleaning. This helps prevent the onset of several dental diseases and identify the current ones in their initial stages. 

Wish to learn more dental care tips from the experts? Call Short & Vlosich Family Dental at (806) 374-8011 or schedule an appointment online.