6 Things to Do Today to Improve Your Oral Health
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When you think about your health, chances are you think mostly about your mind and your body. But your oral health is also extremely important and something you should pay extra attention to. In fact, decisions you make today can actually impact your oral health down the line, so being healthy about the decisions you make is a good thing. Take a look at the six things you can do today that will improve your oral health and keep your smile shining brightly for years to come.
- Brush often.
Your dentist likely recommends you brush your teeth twice a day, and this isn’t a lie. Brushing your teeth in the morning and before bed can improve your overall oral health, so if you’re not currently doing it, you should start. In addition, it’s also recommended to brush your teeth after you eat if possible, as this will remove food and residue from your teeth that could cause damage or decay. Keeping a travel toothbrush with you can make it easier to do this while on the go. Plus, think about how fresh your breath will be if you brush more often than not.
- Floss regularly.
In addition to brushing your teeth more than once per day, it’s also important for you to floss regularly. Flossing helps remove food particles and bacteria from in between the teeth that can cause decay or even gum disease. Make it a point to floss your teeth every time you brush your teeth to get in the habit of having a healthier mouth. Plus, by brushing and flossing regularly, you can reduce the chances of gum disease leading to other illnesses such as heart disease and/or stroke.
- See your dentist.
The American Dental Association recommends you see your dentist at least twice a year, so if it’s been a while before your dentist has seen the inside of your mouth, be sure to make your appointment today. Your dentist will not only thoroughly clean your teeth, but he or she will also ensure there are no underlying issues with your teeth too, such as a decaying tooth. While visiting your dentist, it’s also a good idea to talk with him or her about any issues or changes you’ve notice with your oral health, such as pain, loose teeth, or trouble chewing. This will ensure all issues are treated right away before they become bigger and more expensive problems to fix.
- Eat the right foods.
Your teeth are amazing things that rely on vitamins and minerals to stay strong, so your diet has a big impact on the overall health of your teeth and gums. Be sure to start eating foods that are good for your teeth in order to keep them strong and looking their best. For instance, foods high in sugar are not good for your teeth, so opt for the piece of fruit instead of the cupcake. In addition, you should also be sure to take in plenty of dairy and eat foods like cheese, leafy greens, carrots, and apples, which are all good for your teeth.
- Consider dental implants.
As you get older and your teeth become frail, it’s likely you’ll end up having to determine if dentures are in your future. However, what most people don’t realize is that dental implants are an even better choice. Dental implants are permanent teeth that give you the look of dentures, but without the hassle of having to put them in and take them out every day. In addition, dental implants don’t rot or decay, so you can rest assured that impressive smile you have will last you a very long time.
- Quit the bad habits.
There are certain bad habits that can have a negative impact on your teeth, so if you smoke or indulge in drugs, then it’s time to consider quitting. These bad habits, along with drinking, can ruin your teeth, so if you’d like to avoid expensive dental fixes in your future, then it’s a good idea to quit these bad habits as soon as possible. There are plenty of places you can reach out to for help, so find the place or the help you need to get your life back on a healthier track.
Your oral health is extremely important to your overall health, and making these changes today and doing these things will give you a bright and healthy smile along with a better chance of having healthier teeth and gums.
