Best Oral Health Practices To Achieve A Healthy Smile

Good oral care is a practice that patients of all ages should follow to have good oral health. Good oral health has a number of benefits. First and foremost, it means you are less likely to develop infections, diseases, or cavities. It also means you are more likely to enjoy a bright, white smile, healthy teeth, and strong enamel.

Here are a few tips to maintain good oral health:

• Brush your teeth

To maintain optimal oral health, it is important to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. While brushing your teeth, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against the gum line. Brush gently, using small circular motions. Be sure to brush all surfaces of the teeth, not just the fronts or backs, but the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces as well.

• Floss your teeth

Brushing your teeth alone is not enough. ADA recommends that everyone should floss at least once a day. By flossing regularly, you can prevent bacteria buildup, which is a common cause of cavities, gingivitis, and bad breath. 

• Regular dental cleanings

You should visit your dentist for regular dental cleanings as part of your oral health care routine. These cleanings not only keep your teeth healthy, but you also see your dentist for an oral exam. The exam allows your doctor to detect signs of other potential oral health problems such as oral cancer, gum disease, or tooth decay. The ADA recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for a dental exam. Coming in to see your dentist for routine cleanings and exams every six months is the best way to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. These dental exams allow your dental team to monitor your oral health and catch problems early on when they are easiest to treat.

• Oral Cancer Screenings

Oral cancer is on the rise, and early detection is crucial. Adults over the age of 18 should have an oral cancer screening at least once per year. During an oral cancer screening, the dentist will perform a visual and physical examination of the cheeks, lips, and tongue. The dentist will look for any signs of oral cancer, such as white and red patches. If the dentist detects anything unusual, a biopsy may be performed.

• Use mouthwash

Mouthwash removes bacteria, plaque, and food particles that are left after brushing and flossing. You should also consider using mouthwash after meals.

• Reduce your sugar intake

Sugar is one of the worst things for your teeth. It feeds the bacteria in plaque, which eats away at the enamel of your teeth and causes cavities. It also feeds the bacteria that cause gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss. So, try to limit the number of sweets and other sugary foods you eat. If you must indulge, try to brush and floss your teeth as soon as possible to reduce the amount of sugar left behind.

• Use mouthguards if you grind your teeth at night

If you wake up with sore jaw muscles or a headache, it could be a sign that you are grinding your teeth in your sleep. Grinding your teeth can damage your enamel, wear down your teeth, cause headaches, and irritate your jaw muscles. It can also impact your teeth' alignment. One way to prevent this damage is to use a nightguard. A nightguard fits over your teeth and prevents them from touching. It can even prevent your teeth from grinding against each other.

To learn more about our dental procedures or to schedule your appointment for dental checkups, call Whitlow Dental Care at (559)441-7700.