Toothbrush, Dental Floss, Mouthwash, Toothpaste

Maintaining your oral hygiene is an essential component of an overall healthy lifestyle. Your mouth is the “gateway” to the rest of your body.  Failing to upkeep your regular hygiene maintenance appointments can lead to significant oral health issues such as gum disease, which can impact your overall well-being.

Dentists regularly stress to patients the seriousness of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular check-ups and hygiene visits combined with an adequate oral regimen at home are always recommended. Here are seven practices you can adopt as a part of your regular routine to improve your overall oral health.

1.    Brush Your Teeth Twice A Day

As you go about your day consuming various foods, particles of food are left behind in your mouth, which can attach to your teeth. Leaving these behind habitually can lead to plaque build-up, tooth decay, and gum disease over time. Brushing twice daily eliminates plaque by removing it from your teeth. 

2.    Floss Daily

In addition to brushing twice daily, flossing is also essential. There are areas in your mouth that are inaccessible to your toothbrush. Flossing plays a vital role in removing hidden food and plaque. If these areas are left unattended a crusty deposit that can trap stains on the teeth and cause discoloration.  Tartar formation, also known as calculus may also make it more difficult to remove new plaque and bacteria. Individuals vary greatly in their susceptibility to plaque and tartar on teeth.

3.    Consider a non-alcohol Mouthwash

Mouthwash is great to add to your dental regimen. After brushing, and flossing, following up with mouthwash helps to eliminate the presence of bacteria in your mouth. Using a non-alcohol mouthwash regularly helps to prevent gum disease, reduce tartar, plaque and rinse away food particles.

4.   Regular Dental Check-Ups

Maintaining a healthy dental routine at home is critical, however, ensuring that you visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings is highly recommended.  Hygienists can provide a deeper clean then what you can do at home. Dentists also assess your overall oral health and ensure that issues are identified and corrected before further damage occurs.

5.    Eliminate Smoking & Limit Alcohol Consumption

 Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption are two habits that dentists often detest when it comes to oral health as both predispose you to gum disease. Smoking will weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Alcohol’s high sugar content and dehydrating properties can lead to detrimental issues to your gums and teeth.

6.    Adopt a Healthy Diet

Sugary and acidic foods are two types of foods that should be avoided. It is best to reduce your consumption of these foods as they can lead to erosion of your enamel, which protects your teeth. Eating healthy produce and foods high in fibre is a great way to improve your oral care.  

7.    Drink More Water

Drinking water is good for your overall well-being and also very beneficial for your oral health.  Drinking water after every meal helps to rinse away sugars, acids, and particles of food, which can all harm your teeth.

Consider Platinum Dental Care for Your Oral Health

If you are searching for a family dentist in the Lawrence Park area, we encourage you to contact the office of Platinum Dental Care. Our team of dental professionals will be more than happy to assist. Contact us today to schedule your visit!