Lately, I went to a dental clinic to meet one of my very good friends who is an orthodontist. In our casual talk, she haphazardly said that dental problems are increasing every day and so the patients, laughs!
Out of my curiosity, I asked her the reason for these worsening dental problems. There she divulged different problems and possible causes. While communicating this information she every time was emphasizing gum health and hygiene.
I would love to share those healthy habits I jotted down from orthodontist to keep your gums disease free. These all habits are very easy and pertinent.
- Brush your teeth after every meal
We already are acquainted with this habit but still sometimes neglect it. It is always being told to brush your teeth after every meal or at least twice a day. It removes the food and plaque trapped in between teeth and gums. While brushing you need to take care of three things,
- Do not brush too fast or slow. Brush your teeth for less than 3 min in light circles and vertical strokes.
- Cover all areas especially gums and the back teeth that are most open to the cavity.
- Do not forget to clean your tongue gently and the roof of your mouth
2. Change your toothbrush regularly
Selecting a right toothbrush is equally important because it could be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. The toothbrush should be a soft-bristled and it should have a long enough handle to hold in hand. It should be changed once in two or three months or when bristles are worn out.
3. Floss once in a day
No matter how well you have brushed your teeth small particles get trapped in tight spaces. Flossing helps to clean what brushing has left unclean. Notwithstanding, it should be done carefully because excessive force or haste may cause your gum bleeding or occurred cuts may lead to other bacterial infections.
4. Drink plenty of water
A habit to rinse mouth or gargle with water after every meal can help you to wash out leftover particles. Water forms saliva and it is very essential to keep your mouth healthy and bacteria in control. It also helps to neutralize acidity which could erode tooth enamel and weaken the teeth.
5. Take proper diet
Teeth need nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and vitamin C. Your diet should contain all these nutrients to ward off gum diseases. For instance, the dairy product contains a lot of calcium which strengthens tooth enamel, apples, and celery help to neutralize acidity. There are some foods have to be avoided such as sugar-loaded candies, cookies, soda, cakes, and pastries. These foods of bacteria pace-up the infection in the mouth. If you eat such sugary food rinse your mouth with water. Similarly, acidic foods should be avoided and vegetables and fruits should be added to the diet.
6. Quit smoking and chewing tobacco
It could be the cause of your yellowish teeth and bad breath. Smoking can make you a mouth breather and affect saliva production. This is very important to quit this habit because consuming tobacco in any form can harm your oral tissues and weaken them. Even in a few cases, it leads to oral cancer.
7. Use right dental products
Dental products such as toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and a toothpick are equally likely important to be chosen right. You should choose toothpaste containing fluoride and has a seal of ADA acceptance. We need to keep the mouth clean and teeth only make 25 percent of your mouth. Use a therapeutic mouthwash which helps to reduce plaque but avoid mouthwash with alcohol, it can harm your gums more.
8. Visit your dentist twice a year
Dental problems are not visible in their initial stages. Your dentist can only detect those early symptoms of gum diseases before they become serious. Hence, it is always recommended to get regular dental cleanings to prevent teeth disease and if any then to cure it.
Must read Why regular health check-ups are important?
Gums and teeth are important! No wonder most of us take a really good care of them. However, don’t forget what your dentist has taught you.
