Bad oral hygiene habits are a plague on your health. As many as 47.2% of adults aged 30 years and older have at least one common form of periodontal disease, and poor oral hygiene is the primary cause.
Oral health is associated with overall health, so when your mouth is in bad shape, your entire body suffers.
If you’re wondering what poor oral hygiene looks like, you’ve come to the right place. Here are the top oral hygiene habits you should start practicing immediately.
Read on!
1. Brush Twice a Day
Oral hygiene habits are important to incorporate into your daily routine in order to maintain a healthy oral cavity. Brushing twice a day is the most important part of a dental hygiene regimen. It’s important to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste to help remove plaque and food debris.
Cleaning your tongue is also important, and using a tongue scraper or tongue cleaner can help eliminate bad breath and the build-up of bacteria. Making sure to clean the entire tooth surface and the gumline will ensure better oral hygiene.
2. Floss Daily
Flossing is one important habit that should be adopted daily. Flossing helps remove plaque and bacteria between teeth and below the gum line, leading to a cleaner, healthier mouth.
To make flossing easier and more effective, use the right type of floss for your teeth and use a gentle sawing motion when flossing. It is also important to remember to floss the back of your teeth and around your teeth, as plaque and debris can hide in those hard-to-reach places.
In addition to regular brushing, flossing should occur at least once a day, preferably in the evening before bed. If you develop any soreness or irritation from flossing, reduce the pressure and angle of the floss, and this should decrease the discomfort. With a proper oral hygiene routine, which should include fasting, your teeth will stay healthy for years to come.
3. Use Mouthwash Regularly
One of the most important practices is using mouthwash regularly. Mouthwash helps to remove plaque, reduce bacteria growth and strengthen the enamel of our teeth.
It also helps to give us fresh breaths, and it’s also a smart addition to our dental routine after brushing and flossing. It’s important to consult a dentist to know what type of mouthwash best suits you.
Additionally, you should avoid alcohol-containing mouthwash as it can be harsh and dry the mouth. To maximize oral health benefits, use only the recommended amount of mouthwash and gargle for at least 30 seconds.
Make sure to swish it around enough to reach all areas of the mouth. Using mouthwash regularly will help to keep your teeth clean and your breath fresh. Not to mention, it also helps to reduce your risk of developing major dental issues in the future.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Drinking plenty of water is one of the most effective oral hygiene habits. Drinking at least eight to ten cups of water daily can help remove food particles from between teeth and under your gums, reducing the amount of plaque build-up on teeth.
Additionally, water helps to wash away the acids released in the mouth from sugary and processed foods. Water also helps to dilute acid-producing bacteria, allowing for a better balance in the mouth and a healthier environment for teeth.
Water can also help to keep the mouth and tongue lubricated, making them more capable of removing bacteria. With the right oral hygiene habits, you can maintain a healthy mouth and smile.
5. Avoiding Sugary and Acidic Foods and Drinks
Oral hygiene is important for your overall health, and developing healthy habits can help you maintain clean, healthy teeth and gums. One of the best ways to keep your mouth clean is to avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
These types of foods and drinks can cause plaque and tooth decay, so by reducing or eliminating them, you can lower your risk.
6. Chewing Sugar-Free Gum
Chewing sugar-free gum is one habit that you can regularly adopt to promote healthy teeth and gums. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps to reduce the number of bacteria that forms inside the mouth and on teeth.
The sugar in regular gum can lead to tooth decay, so it’s important to find a sugar-free alternative and chew for about 10-20 minutes after each meal and snack. By substituting sugary treats with gum, you are also promoting healthier options for yourself and helping to reduce cavities.
7. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental checkups are an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene habits. These checkups provide an opportunity to assess your individual needs and any issues related to your oral health.
There are several teeth services such as cleaning, whitening, replacements, and many more. If you need a teeth replacement, consider looking for a dental implant specialist. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can be sure that any potential problems are caught and prevented.
8. Quit Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
One of the best oral hygiene habits you should adopt is to quit smoking and drinking alcohol. Tobacco use and alcohol consumption can stain teeth, dry out the mouth, and increase the risk of gum disease.
In addition, smoking and drinking can both contribute to an increased risk of tooth decay and other oral health problems. Taking control of your oral hygiene today can help you remain healthy and have a great smile for a lifetime.
Oral Hygiene Habits to Adapt
Having proper oral hygiene habits is essential for a healthy mouth. Introducing new habits such as brushing more often, flossing daily, avoiding sugary snacks, and drinking plenty of water can significantly impact your overall health.
Make sure to visit your dentist regularly for a cleaning and check-up to help improve your dental health. Start improving your habits today to reduce your risk of dental issues!
Like what you read? Looking for ways to keep your health in check? Stick around for more great reads.
