Your smile and overall oral health largely depend on simple dental care habits such as brushing and flossing. But just brushing your teeth does not guarantee that you are giving your mouth all the attention it deserves. There are billions of bacteria that live inside your mouth and build up as plaque, causing tooth decay and gingivitis. Diseases such as oral cancer, gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath can invade your mouth and cause long-term problems. Here are some of the best practices to improve your dental hygiene.
Switch to a Soft Bristle Brush
Hard bristle toothbrushes give your teeth a more vigorous scrub and damage your teeth and gums, so it is important to replace your hard and medium bristle brushes with soft ones. It helps to remove plaque gently, protect your teeth, and save enamel. Soft bristle brushes will still get rid of bacteria, but they can also effective if you have sensitive teeth and gums or signs of enamel erosion. Also, remember to change your brush every two to three months.
Follow the Right Brushing Technique
Place your soft bristle toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and gently move it back and forth in short strokes. It is vital to brush the outer surface, inner surface, and chewing surface of the teeth. Be sure to also brush your tongue for a fresher breath. Spend at least two minutes brushing both in the morning and at night. A little discipline in practicing these methods will help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Floss Correctly
Flossing is essential for a healthy oral care routine. Flossing removes plaque and excess food particles. It also prevents tooth decay and reduces the risk of developing gum disease. To properly floss, wrap it around your fingers and lower it in between your teeth. Repeat this movement for both sides of every tooth to remove plaque and debris.
Choose Healthy Toothpaste
The right toothpaste plays an essential role in good oral health, and not all toothpaste is suitable for everyone. Beware of ingredients such as glycerol, SLS, silicates, charcoal, triclosan, and parabens because they can increase the risk of mouth ulcers. Many toothpaste brands also use unhealthy and toxic ingredients which can cause severe irritation to your gums.
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, switch to a natural dental product. You can pick vegan toothpaste that is made from the finest natural ingredients and doesn’t include any animal by-products. With natural vanilla toothpaste, you can be confident that you won’t find any harsh chemicals.
Follow a Diet for Whiter Teeth
Numerous minerals and other compounds in your favorite dishes can help to whiten your teeth. If you are aiming for white, bright teeth include tart foods, dairy products, crunchy foods, and pineapples in your diet. These stain-fighting and saliva-producing foods can help to whiten your teeth. Avoid red wine, coffee, tea, darkly colored beverages, and sugary foods that cause tooth decay. Being aware of foods that are good and bad for your teeth can help you maintain a bright smile.
Great information that everyone can use.