Oral and dental care

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Sep 25, 2020 • 2 min Read

Good teeth and mouth care is an important part of maintaining overall health. Taking good care of your teeth and mouth throughout your life can help prevent both dental and medical problems.

Healthy teeth and mouth not only enable you to look and feel good, they make it possible for us to eat and speak properly too. Here are some tips to maintain a healthy mouth and strong teeth, from Better Health Channel:

* Regular tooth brushing helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease by reducing the amount of bacteria and plaque around the teeth and gums.

* Limiting sugars (especially between meals)

Limiting sugars helps prevent tooth decay. The less sugar in your diet, the less food you are giving the bacteria to help them grow and multiply. Fewer bacteria means less production of the acid that damages tooth surfaces. Limit sugary foods, especially sticky foods that stay on the teeth, and acidic drinks such as soft drinks (including sugar-free/diet and regular), sports drinks, cordials, and fruit juices. Choose water instead.

* Brushing teeth twice per day with a fluoride toothpaste

Fluoride helps to repair damage to the tooth surface. Drink plenty of water. Fluoride is found in most tap water and helps repair acid damage to teeth. Water also helps wash away sugars from food and drink and dilute acid in the mouth. Use a suitable fluoride toothpaste. Talk to your dentist about whether you need fluoride treatments such as a rinse, foam, gel, or varnish. They take only a few minutes and can strengthen your teeth to protect against decay. 

* Cleaning between the teeth with floss or interdental brushes

It is important to clean between the teeth to get to the areas that a toothbrush can’t reach.

* Regularly having your teeth checked by a dentist or other oral health professional

An oral health professional can help spot and treat any problems early, which can prevent further decay. Oral health professionals also provide care to prevent decay such as fluoride treatments and sealants. Ask your oral health professional how often you need to have a dental check-up. If you have not had a dental visit for a while, you may need a check-up soon. Having no pain does not always mean that your teeth and mouth are healthy.

* Quit smoking to improve oral health and general health. Smoking is one of the main risk factors for oral cancers.

* Limit your alcohol intake. Frequent and heavy consumption of alcohol increases your risk of oral cancer. Using alcohol and tobacco together increases this risk even more.

For a healthy smile, practice good oral hygiene every day. Simply brush, floss, use your favorite oral antiseptic, and don’t miss your dentist to achieve your best smile.

Stay healthy and safe!