The ultimate guide with tips for maintaining oral health

The one way to continue enjoying a pearly white smile with healthy pink gums is by keeping the mouth healthy, and one way to achieve that is by having timely dentist visits, at least twice a year. However there are still things each person can do to protect the health of their teeth on a daily basis at home. The tips that are mentioned, taken together along the course of a couple of days, can help to improve overall oral health. They include;

1. Choose the Right Tooth Brush:

It is important to opt for a soft bristled, multi-tuffed smaller toothbrush as its head is small enough to reach the back of the mouth properly and is easy to grip.

Brushes that are harder, end up causing bleeding within the gums, and in time this can cause the gum line to recede. A tooth brush should be changed every 3 months, or as soon as the bristles begin to become too soft.

Talk to a dentist to find out the right way to use a tooth brush as well as other hygiene aids. 

2. Don’t Brush too often or hard:

It is recommended to not brush more than 3 times a day. Brushing too hard is also an issue which many people are not aware of, brushing too hard causes gum line recession, as well as damages the root surfaces of the teeth by causing abrasion on them. Exposed teeth become a possible hazard for decay. It is recommended to use a gentler hand while brushing for 2 minutes.

3. Floss Daily:

Flossing is one of the best ways to remove plaque buildup in places where a tooth brush cannot reach, particularly in between the teeth. 

If plaque is not properly removed, it can lead to tooth decay or gum disease.

4. Tongue Test:

In order to find out whether or not someone is brushing their teeth properly, an inexpensive way to find that out is by running their tongue across the surface of the teeth and gums, if the tongue moves smoothly without any abrasions, then the person is properly brushing without any plaque residue, however if abrasions are found, then the person should pay more attention to how they are brushing.

5. Avoid Snacking:

Snacking on sugary snacks and in between meals contribute to problems which can easily be prevented. 

The National Institute of Health states that tooth decay is the most common chronic disease which affects booth adults and children alike. Sugar is a preferred source of nutrition by bacteria. To enjoy sugary snacks without an issue, it is recommended to either brush, or consume it during meal time so salvia can break it down

6. Inform the Dentist of Bleeding, lumps or ulcers:

There are cases where a change in the oral environment is normal; however there are times where these changes signal the early warning signs of a disease. 

Hence, it is important to notify a dentist if there are any unusual changes like an ulcer, bleeding gums, or discoloration etc. 

7. Use Fluoride Toothpaste:

Fluoride is not only helpful in preventing cavities but it has shown promise in repairing tooth enamel. 

According to the American Dental Association, using only a smear of fluoride is recommended for toddlers and babies aged 3. For children aged 3 – 6, a pea sized amount is recommended.

8. Don’t Brush after Consuming Acidic Beverages:

It may sound like a strange tip, however it is because, the acids within the hard enamel that covers the teeth, dissolves the superficial layers of the teeth. 

Sodas, sports drinks and juices end up causing this issue as it dissolves calcium from the surface enamel through a process called de-mineralization. 

If people brush straight after consuming these beverages, the top layers of enamel will be taken alongside the plaque, so it is recommended to wait about an hour or so before brushing.