Oral hygiene is important for your overall health. Good oral habits can help keep your teeth and gums healthy for a lifetime. However, bad oral habits can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other serious health problems. Read on to learn good oral habits that can keep your teeth bright and healthy, and bad oral habits that you should strive to avoid.
Some essential good habits include brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and using proper brushing techniques to remove plaque effectively. Flossing daily is equally important, as it cleans the areas between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Drinking plenty of water, especially after meals, can also help wash away food particles and bacteria. Regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months allow your dentist to catch problems early before they become more serious.
On the other hand, certain habits can harm your teeth and gums. Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages, which can cause chipping and fractures. Limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can erode enamel and lead to decay. Smoking and tobacco use are particularly damaging, increasing the risk of gum disease, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. Being mindful of these habits can help protect your beautiful smile for years to come.
Good Oral Habits
Good oral habits lead to good oral health, which ultimately leads to good overall health! Make sure you teach your children good oral habits so they become second nature. If you aren’t already doing these things, it is never too late to begin.
- Brush and floss twice a day. Make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and choose the right toothpaste to prevent gum recession, tooth sensitivity and cavities. Flossing regularly will help prevent gum disease.
- Visit your dentist every six months. Just because you brush and floss your teeth doesn’t mean you can skip the dentist. Your dental team is able to deep clean your teeth with tools you do not have at home. Your dentist will take any necessary x-rays, perform treatments and track any changes or concerns in your dental health.
- Wear a mouthguard at night if you clench or grind your teeth. Bruxism is a common habit that can cause tooth sensitivity, jaw pain, headaches and worn tooth enamel. Wearing a nightguard can prevent any long term damage to your teeth.
Bad Oral Habits
In addition to maintaining good oral habits, you should strive to avoid these bad ones:
- Eating or drinking sugary foods and beverages. Sugary foods and beverages are okay in moderation, but make sure you brush your teeth right after consumption. If you don’t have your toothbrush on you, swish your mouth out with water until you can brush your teeth. Avoid consuming sugar right before bed!
- Skipping the dentist. We mentioned above that going to the dentist every six months is important. It is so important that we want to reiterate it here. If you avoid the dentist, your dentist doesn’t have the opportunity to screen you for cavities, gum disease and oral cancer. These could worsen and become detrimental to your health, even fatal.
- Using your teeth as a bottle opener. It might seem harmless to open a bottle or remove a price tag with your teeth, but by doing this you risk chipping or loosening your teeth, cutting your gums or wearing down your tooth enamel. Use a bottle opener or scissors, not your teeth!
If you are in need of a dental home, request an appointment at Fair Lakes Family and Cosmetic Dentistry here! We look forward to meeting you.