Oral health affects more than just the function and appearance of your teeth. It’s very closely linked to one’s overall health and quality of life. As of 2019, oral diseases affect nearly half of the world’s population (around 3.5 billion people out of 7.7 billion), and the presence of an oral disease exposes people all over the globe to further illnesses. To prevent oral issues that can weigh heavily on your holistic health, it’s important to enhance your oral care routine.
Let’s take a look at ways you can make a healthy mouth part of your New Year’s resolutions.
Floss Your Teeth
Flossing one’s teeth is almost as important as brushing. If you add flossing to your oral health routine, do so before you brush. This way, you can remove stubborn plaque and particles that would otherwise be stuck between your teeth. Brushing after flossing will help sweep away bacteria and keep your mouth cleaner for a longer period of time.
Brush Correctly and Brush Often
Dentists advise brushing your teeth at least twice per day, once in the morning and once before bed. It’s also beneficial to use toothpaste that contains fluoride so that you can not only clean your teeth but strengthen them as well.
When brushing, take your time and make sure you’ve gone over the surface of every tooth (don’t forget your tongue). Move your brush in circular patterns to remove plaque and food particles, and use the right amount of pressure when you brush. If your gums are tender, use a softer brush to prevent bleeding.
Use Mouthwash
Using mouthwash after flossing and brushing your teeth helps to kill bacteria that may have been left behind in your mouth. A quick gargle with mouthwash will enhance your oral care routine, but if you struggle to use mouthwash because of the burn, opt for a gentler product. There are mouthwashes that are designed to clean your mouth without being too harsh.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated isn’t only great for your overall health, but it’s extremely beneficial for the health of your mouth. Drink at least a glass of water while or after you eat, as staying hydrated can help remove food particles from your mouth and clear away that sticky, unpleasant feeling that crops up after eating.
Attend Regular Dental Visits
Visiting a dentist every six months is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health. Not only will a dentist perform routine cleaning services, but he or she will also evaluate your mouth to determine whether any concerns are present.
It’s especially important to see a dental professional if you’re experiencing any pain in your mouth, or if you’ve lost/damaged one or more teeth. Treating oral health issues as quickly as possible helps prevent further problems from occurring in your mouth.
Taking care of your mouth helps to promote holistic well-being. A healthy mouth can help prevent certain cancers, chronic throat and respiratory infections, heart disease, digestive issues, and much more.
If you reside in or around the West Valley area and you’re in need of extensive oral healthcare, reach out to Synergy OMS. Our team is here to help you improve your oral health so that you can enjoy a happy, healthy new year.
P.S. These tips can help you keep your New Year’s Resolutions.
