As the spring approaches, you’re looking to leap forward with better oral health. But are there some simple changes you can make in your lifestyle that will bring about the results you desire? Your dentist in Coral Springs says there definitely are, which is why he’ll weigh in with 10 easy improvements you can make that are sure to contribute to a healthier mouth and body. Read on to learn what they are.
Choose the Right Toothbrush
When choosing a toothbrush, there are a few factors to take into consideration – electric or manual, hard or soft bristles. Ultimately, whether you choose an electric or manual toothbrush will depend on which one fits your individual needs the best. However, when it comes to the bristles, your dentist recommends that you choose the softer kind. This will help to avoid gum irritation and enamel wear.
Brush Thoroughly
It’s one thing to brush your teeth, but it’s another to brush them thoroughly. If you’re using a manual toothbrush, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush for two minutes each session. If, however, you have an electric toothbrush you won’t need to brush that long due to its fast-moving bristles. Still, though, it’s imperative that you thoroughly cover every surface of your teeth, cheeks, tongue and roof of your mouth.
The Floss is Boss
Many people remember to brush their teeth but skip out on flossing. As a result, they only clean 60 percent of the surface of their ivories. Furthermore, flossing allows you to get into hard-to-reach places, which is vital not only to the health of your teeth, but also to your gums.
Don’t be a Stranger
The best ally you have in the fight against tooth decay is your dentist, so don’t be a stranger. Take advantage of the opportunity you have to visit semi-annually for cleanings and checkups. These appointments will ensure that your mouth is as healthy as can be. In addition, your six-month visits play a role in your overall health, as your mouth serves as a window to the rest of your body. Thus, your dentist can spot problems that may be developing in other areas.
Make Healthy Choices
The foods you eat have a major impact on your oral health. By choosing vegetables and fruits, as opposed to snacks and sweets, you will upset bacteria by denying them their more preferred food source. In addition, you will help to raise the pH level in your mouth, making your saliva a more alkaline protector of your enamel.
Know When the Brush Must Go
To avoid bacteria growth on the bristles of your toothbrush, discard it after 60 to 90 days of use. It’s especially important to remember this during the next cold and flu season.
Rinse Away Your Troubles
It’s a great idea to incorporate rinsing with mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine. It serves several purposes:
- It helps to keep your mouth wet, which contributes to fighting bacteria.
- It aids in flushing away leftover food and bacteria.
- If an antiseptic, it can kill bacteria.
- It also helps to freshen your breath.
Run from the Tobacco
There is absolutely nothing healthy about smoking or chewing tobacco. The products that fall in these categories are major contributors to oral cancer, tooth decay, gum disease and a host of other problems.
Glide Across Your Tongue
By gently gliding across your tongue with a tongue scraper, you will really upset the plans of bacteria that attempt to hide between the papillae, the little bumps in your tongue. Simply moving the scraper from the back of your tongue to the front will serve as an added supplement to your oral hygiene regimen.
Look for the Seal
Finally, when shopping for toothpaste or mouthwash, look for the ADA seal. When you see it, you’re guaranteed that the product has been tested, approved and found to be safe for you.
So now you’re ready to build the oral and overall health that you’ve been longing for. To learn more about ways to make improvements and experience expert care, reach out to your local dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Walter K. Kulick earned his DMD from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. In addition to practicing dentistry, he has mentored young dentists as a pre-clinical and clinical instructor. Dr. Kulick practices at Coral Springs Dentistry and can be reached for more information through his website.