Most people think that if they just brush a few times a day that they can have healthy teeth. And while brushing is one component of good oral hygiene, getting healthy teeth is a little more complex than that. Teeth are made of bone, and because of that, they can break down if you have a poor diet, or they can become stronger if you eat foods that are better for you. Here are some tips to help you keep your teeth and mouth healthier.
Eat Foods That are Good for Your Teeth
To keep your teeth healthy, you should eat a diet that includes foods that are good for them. Reducing your sugar intake, eating fewer acidic foods, and getting enough protein, calcium, magnesium, and boron can all impact your teeth. Sugar and other starches stuck in your teeth can lead to cavities and decay. But eating meats and fats can improve your body’s uptake of essential nutrients that you need to strengthen your teeth and enamel. When you eat good foods and drink plenty of water throughout the day, water helps keep saliva flowing which keeps your mouth moist and prevents dry mouth and potential cavities.
Visit Your Dentist Once Every 6 Months
Regular dental visits can help keep your teeth clean under the gum line. They can also check for any evidence of tooth decay before it becomes a problem. And when it comes to oral health, there are many great options for dental implants at a dental lab when you need them the most. Your dentist will be able to recommend the best options to ensure your teeth and mouth stay healthy.
Quit Smoking
Here’s your sign that it’s time to quit smoking. The first and most important step toward keeping your teeth healthy is to quit smoking if you are a smoker. This goes for cigarettes, vaping, and cigars as well. Smoking has been linked to gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other oral health problems. In fact, smoking is one of the leading causes of periodontal disease worldwide. Your mouth also suffers from cigarettes because of the toxins that get into your bloodstream and impact your cellular health.
Brush Twice a Day and Floss Daily
The general rule is to brush your teeth twice a day, however, some experts agree that you should brush after every meal and snack. If this isn’t possible, then at a minimum swish your mouth with water to dislodge food pieces from between your teeth. It’s best to use toothpaste with hydroxyapatite to ensure that your teeth are stronger and healthier. You’ll also want to floss to ensure that you get every particle out of the teeth. According to these dentists in Avon Lake OH, if flossing is too time-consuming for you, you can use interdental brushes instead.
Use Mouthwash Regularly
Mouthwash is especially great if you can’t brush right away. Mouthwash contains antimicrobial agents that can help prevent tooth decay and bad breath by keeping the population of bad bacteria low. It also helps to keep your gums healthy, which in turn helps prevent gum disease. Mouthwash can also help you avoid tooth sensitivity, enamel erosion, and discoloration of the teeth if it’s used daily as part of a good oral hygiene routine.
Wear a Night Guard
Grinding your teeth can lead to problems down the road. By putting in a night mouth guard, you’ll protect your teeth and it’ll keep them and your jaw healthier. A mouth guard is a small plastic device that fits over your teeth to protect them from damage. It helps prevent grinding and clenching by absorbing the pressure on the teeth, allowing them to remain healthy. Although they’re not for everyone, they can be bought at pharmacies or made by dentists and worn during sleep or throughout the day.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Don’t bite or chew on pens, pencils, or straws. Don’t use your teeth as a tool to remove bottle lids. And don’t use them to open the packaging. It’s best to find bottle openers and other specific tools to do this if you want to keep them healthy.
Conclusion
The good news is, you can take care of your teeth and make them stronger! You just have to be proactive about it. The more attention you pay to your teeth and gums, the better off they’ll be in the long run.
