Oral health problems are on the rise. And according to the World Health Organization, an estimated 3.5 billion people worldwide suffer from some form of oral disease. Although there are many reasons for this, one of the most common is the lack of awareness about the best ways of taking care of your oral health.
So, how can you stay on top of your oral health and avoid becoming a statistic? Here are some best practices to follow:
Practice Good Oral Care Routine
The first step to good oral health is an excellent oral care routine at home. It is a proactive way to reduce the risk of developing dental problems in the first place.
You can start by brushing your teeth at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush gently in a circular motion and reach all areas of your mouth, including your tongue. Flossing once a day is also essential as it helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth that your toothbrush cannot reach.
In addition to brushing and flossing, mouthwash can help reduce plaque and keep your breath smelling fresh. Look for one that contains fluoride, which will help protect your teeth against cavities.
You can get these oral care products from your local drugstore or supermarket. Be sure to ask your dentist for recommendations on which ones are best for you. By practicing good oral care at home, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing dental problems.
Regular Dental Visits
It’s essential to visit the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups. That’s because many dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease, can develop without pain or symptoms. So, you may not even be aware that you have a problem until it’s too late.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that most people visit the dentist at least once every six months for a cleaning and checkup. However, you may need to schedule more often if you have certain risk factors for dental problems. These risk factors include gum disease, tooth decay, smoking, and diabetes.
Nonetheless, even if you don’t have any risk factors, it’s still a good idea to see the dentist regularly. That way, problems can be caught early and treated before they become more serious.
Be Mindful of Changes in Your Mouth
Suppose you notice anything unusual in your mouth, such as new growths, bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath. In that case, be sure to see a dental professional immediately so that they can diagnose and treat any problems as soon as possible.
Some people ignore changes in their mouths because they think it’s nothing serious. On the other hand, many don’t even take notice of them. However, it’s essential to be aware of any changes in your mouth to get prompt treatment if necessary.
Many changes in your mouth can be benign, but some may be signs of more severe issues, such as oral cancer. So, it’s always best to avoid caution and get any changes checked out by a professional. Doing so can help ensure that any problems are caught early and treated appropriately.
Check for Wisdom Teeth Growth
Around age 18, it’s time to check your wisdom teeth for growth. Wisdom teeth are the third molars that typically appear in the back of the mouth around this age. They can sometimes become impacted (stuck) as they try to erupt through the gum line.
An impacted wisdom tooth can cause pain, swelling, and other problems. That’s why it’s crucial to have them checked by a dental professional to decide whether they need to get removed. And even if they’re not impacted, some people may still need to have their wisdom teeth removed for other reasons.
Although many think wisdom teeth are a nuisance, they’re still an essential part of your mouth. That’s why taking care of them and checking them regularly is necessary. With proper care, they can help you maintain good oral health.
Don’t Neglect Your Diet
Eating a healthy diet is integral to oral health because it helps promote strong teeth and healthy gums. When you eat sugary or acidic foods, the bacteria in your mouth break them down and produce acids that can damage your teeth.
To help prevent this, be mindful of your diet and include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are good for your overall health and help keep your mouth healthy. In addition to a balanced diet, it’s also important to drink plenty of water. That’s because water helps rinse away food and bacteria that can cause cavities and other dental problems.
As a result, it’s essential to be mindful of what you eat and drink. By eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water, you can maintain good oral health.
Oral health is essential for overall health and well-being—but how do you stay on top of it? The above are some best practices for keeping your oral health in check. Following these tips can help ensure a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. So, what are you waiting for? Upgrade your oral care routine today!
