6 Everyday Habits Your Teeth Will Thank You For Adopting

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Did you know that our mouth is capable of alerting us to ailments concerning our general health (1)? Sadly, this is something that few people recognize. This is because many infectious agents can enter the body via the mouth and spread to other systems (the respiratory and digestive systems). That’s why it’s essential to maintain a spotless oral hygiene routine and focus on the details. Here in this article are a few things you need to follow while taking care of your oral health. Read on!
1. Do Not Brush Your Teeth Too Vigorously
If a person is completely healthy, their gums will be pink and firm. Yet some suffer from swollen, bleeding, or even receding gums. The gum recession will be obvious since the teeth would seem longer than normal. The use of too much force and a toothbrush with too many bristles might be to blame. Dentists advise using a soft-bristled toothbrush and circular motions to thoroughly clean all surfaces of your teeth.
2. Clean Your Tongue Regularly
If you forget to clean your tongue, the bacteria that accumulates there might proliferate. You might get a yeast infection, foul breath, loss of taste, gum disease, or all four (2). Using a mouth scraper is essential since it is considerably more comfortable for your mouth than a standard toothbrush. However, make sure that you are gentle on your tongue and do not overdo it.
3. Use Mouthwash
Bad breath can be caused by eating things like garlic, onions, & certain spices daily. Yet, not brushing your teeth properly and allowing food particles to linger in your mouth is the most typical cause for bad breath. These leftovers will spoil in your mouth and give off a foul stench. In addition, many bacteria like to hang around the tongue and make unpleasant sulfur compounds. Fortunately, mouthwash may aid in the elimination of germs and restore the freshness of one’s breath. The presence of fluoride in the mouthwash makes it effective against cavities and periodontal disease. However, do not overdo the mouthwash use as it may wear the natural enamel of your teeth. Make sure you use it in an adequate amount once a day.
4. Use Appropriate Oral Health Care Products If Your Teeth Are Sensitive
You may need to see a dentist if the thought of sipping cold water or hot soup makes your teeth hurt. This is because exposed tooth roots induce discomfort only after the protective layer of enamel has worn away. Your dentist might recommend a sensitive-teeth toothpaste that won’t aggravate your condition any further. Furthermore, fluoride may be used to strengthen the enamel in the affected regions, hence reducing discomfort. Use a soft brush and meticulously stick to your regular oral hygiene routine at home. It’s also a good idea to limit your intake of acidic foods, which can erode tooth enamel.
5. Get Your Teeth Checked Once A Year
Teeth discoloration is another issue brought on by neglecting your oral care routine. It’s easier for germs, acid, and plaque to colonize your mouth if you don’t clean your teeth as regularly as recommended. Plaque and tartar are to blame for the unsightly yellow film that forms around the edges of your teeth. So, in addition to the twice-daily brushings and once-yearly dental cleanings, you should also see a dentist at least once a year for a checkup. The dentist will be able to clean those previously inaccessible regions of tartar and plaque. With specialized equipment, they would also floss and polish your teeth. Doing this final step will restore the natural whiteness of your teeth and banish any remaining traces of yellow.
6. Visit A Dentist If You Are Experience Any Kind Of Abnormality In Your Teeth And Gums
Sometimes, people get itchy rashes at the corner of their mouths. Bacterial infections are to blame, even if the chilly air would seem to be the culprit. Possible causes include saliva overproduction, dietary inadequacies, or compulsive lip plucking. Going to the doctor is a good idea since they can prescribe medication or other treatments that will alleviate your symptoms. In addition, you may choose to check your blood for any deficiencies that might be at the root of the problem.
There are mainly three potential causes of that awful metallic taste, including the medicine you are taking. Several common drugs, including antihistamines, antibiotics, and other heart medications, might leave you with a metallic aftertaste (3). It might also be an indicator of gum disease, signaling the need for a visit with the dentist and then a radical revamp of your approach to oral care. So now that you know the tricks to maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine, nothing can keep you from flashing your pearly whites!
Sources:
- Drug-related taste disturbance, NCBI
- Oral Candidiasis, NCBI
- Section 1 Effect of Oral Health on the Community, Overall Well-Being, and the Economy, NCBI