Tips to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene Always
Daily dental care is a great way for you to protect your teeth, but most of us end up falling short of what’s required. All around us, we hear about people who don’t pay attention to their health and end up suffering the consequences. Despite that, a lot of us are quite lax when it comes to oral hygiene.
We hate to break it to you, but poor oral hygiene can lead to so much more than just cavities — it can also potentially lead to heart disease, diabetes, and other main health problems (including Alzheimer’s). Taking care of your mouth and teeth is extremely important for your overall health, so you need to follow a few simple strategies for maintaining good oral hygiene. Read on for tips to maintain good oral hygiene.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Most tooth decay occurs because of bacteria that live in your mouth. These bacteria feed on starches, sugars, and carbohydrates that are found in foods we eat every day. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in food and plaque are allowed to interact with teeth for extended periods of time. Bacteria produce acids that weaken the tooth and leave decalcified areas vulnerable to cavities. This cavity-causing process is known as demineralization.
How to Prevent Tooth Decay?
The most effective way to remove plaque and prevent tooth decay is by brushing and cleaning between your teeth every day. Flossing is essential to prevent gum disease. Plaque is sticky. Flossing helps keep plaque away from your teeth. To do it, thread a piece of floss between your teeth with a gentle sawing motion. Gently brush the sides of your teeth using a clean section of floss to remove the plaque hiding between them.
Tips to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
-Brush your tongue to get rid of bacteria.
-Reduce the number of sweetened drinks you consume daily.
-Drink fluoridated water during meals, to wash away the sugar and acids.
-Use a straw to help reduce the contact of sugary beverages with your teeth.
-Replace sugary drinks with milk, yogurt, or water.