There are many aspects to looking after your oral health; it can often be difficult to know which pieces of advice we should take, and which we should ignore. To help make things a little clearer, here are some tips to help you keep your smile healthy:
- Your diet and oral health are linked
What you eat and drink can have a huge impact upon your oral health; Sugary and acidic food can cause damage such as tooth decay and dental erosion if you don’t look after your oral health properly. Try to only eat/drink sugary foods or drinks at mealtimes, to limit the amount of time your mouth is at risk. A diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals and fresh fruit and vegetables can help to prevent gum disease.
- Wait until you brush your teeth
Although it’s important to brush twice a day for two minutes each time, you shouldn’t brush your teeth within an hour of eating or drinking anything acidic. Instead, brush your teeth before you go to bed and at least one other time each day.
- Visit the dentist as often as you need
How often you need to visit the dentist depends on your own oral health. You may need to visit at different intervals depending on aspects such as if you have any existing oral health problems, your age, and other health issues. As a rule of thumb you should visit the dentist as often as they recommend, so discuss this with your dentist.
- Choose the toothbrush that’s best for you
Choosing the best toothbrush for you can be difficult, as everybody will have their own requirements. Adults should look to use a small to medium-sized brush head with soft to rounded nylon bristles. There are bushes which are specifically designed for children and the elderly.
Electric toothbrushes, those with the oscillating and rotating heads, can also be very effective and are helpful for people with mobility problems.
Your dentist will know your requirements, and can help you make the right decision.
- Mouthwash has many benefits
Mouthwash offers many benefits to your oral health if used properly: some contain anti-bacterial ingredients which help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease, whilst others contain fluoride which is important in the helping to prevent tooth decay.