A healthy mouth absolutely provides us with nutrition for the physical body, but more importantly, it improves our social interaction and encourages self-esteem. Achieving healthy teeth takes a lifetime of responsibility. Even if you have been told that you have nice teeth, it’s crucial that you take the right steps to keep them healthy to prevent problems such as dental caries and gum disease. This involves choosing the right oral care products as well as being mindful of your daily habits. The following tips will be helpful in keeping your mouth and teeth healthy (Newsletter –Tips to improve dental hygiene, 4th April 2018 by Dr. Ayush Sharma-Dentist)
Don’t go to bed without brushing. It is no secret that the general recommendation is to brush at least twice daily. However, the majority of us still neglect to brush our teeth at night. Brushing before bed helps to get rid of the food particles and germs that accumulate throughout the day.
Brush properly. The way you brush is very important. In fact, brushing wrongly is equally bad as not brushing at all. It is recommended that while brushing, hold your brush ahead at 45 degrees angle and gently brush in tiny circular motions or small horizontal strokes. Do not brush vigorously as it may damage your gums and teeth.
Floss daily. Your brushing alone may not be adequate to give you a clean mouth. Flossing can further help to reach small crevices in your teeth that may be too small for your brush bristles. Ask your dentist or pharmacist on how best flossing can be done.
Reduce the use of sugary foods. Sugars react with the bacteria in the saliva to form an acid that erodes your tooth enamel; the outer layer of your teeth leading to dental caries.
Swiss with a mouth wash. For an added boost to your oral hygiene, routinely rinse your mouth with an antibacterial mouth wash. This will help to kill the germs that are highly responsible for dental decays. Ask your dentist or pharmacist about the suitable mouth wash for you.
Use fluoride toothpaste. Use of fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth will help to strengthen the enamel of your teeth and combat tooth decay.
Always brush your tongue. Do not neglect your tongue while brushing your teeth. The tongue harbours a lot of bacteria, so always use your toothbrush to clean the tongue and remove most of these bacteria.
Pay attention to your mouth and gums. Always take note when your gums look inflamed or if you spit blood while brushing. Don’t ignore aches and pains. Always consult your dentist to ensure it’s not a symptom of something more serious. In an event that your dental health is already compromised by teeth that are sensitive and damaged with caries, you haven’t lost it all yet. Products have been developed to help you restore your dental health. Ask our pharmacists on these new products that will help restore your teeth.