Your smile is strong enough to last a lifetime, but only if you consistently take good care of both your teeth and gums.
Oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease are very common, often difficult to spot early symptoms. To keep teeth and gums healthy, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and take care of your oral health in other ways too.
Oral Healthcare Tips
The most important way to protect teeth and gums is with a consistent oral hygiene routine. This includes twice-daily brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and daily flossing. For best results, use a cheek and tongue cleaner regularly and an antibacterial mouthwash once a day.
Another way to protect your teeth and gums is by choosing a healthy diet with plenty of fresh foods. Crisp raw vegetables such as celery and carrots make great snacks, as these crunchy, low-sugar foods help scrape plaque from your teeth. Chewing sugar-free gum after meals can also help protect your teeth, as chewing promotes saliva production, which helps to slow down bacterial growth.
Specific dental devices also help protect teeth. For instance, wearing a sports guard during sporting activities is vital for preventing damage that may result in tooth loss or other oral injuries. Another useful dental device is designed for people who grind their teeth during sleep. This habit can be incredibly destructive to teeth, but wearing a custom sleep guard prevents tooth grinding and tooth damage.
Things to Avoid
Just as some habits are right for your teeth, some are not. For instance, a diet that’s high in sugar contributes heavily to tooth decay. Oral bacteria feed on sugar and release an acid that eats away at the enamel, eventually leading to tooth decay and cavities. Avoiding sugary foods and drinks—and brushing immediately afterward when you do have them—is the best way to limit their effect.
Using tobacco products—especially smoking—is also a habit to avoid if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Smoking contributes to gum disease, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss and other problems.
Finally, avoid using your teeth to bite or chew anything that isn’t food. Don’t use your teeth to cut a thread, open a carton or packet, or anything similar. This can result in damage that may lead to chips and decay.
See Your Dentist Regularly
At-home oral care is vital to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong, but it’s important to remember the final piece of the puzzle too: regular visits to your dentist, for professional cleaning and exams.