When we talk about health, we often focus on eating well and exercising to maintain a healthy weight and boost heart health. While it’s hugely beneficial to take steps to protect your general health, it’s also important to be mindful of dental health. If you’re looking to enhance your smile and supercharge your oral health, this guide is packed with tips and tricks. Here’s my tips on effective ways to supercharge your oral health.
Embrace twice-daily cleaning
Dental hygiene is the most effective way to reduce the risk of decay and gum disease and keep your smile looking radiant and youthful. A good daily oral hygiene routine should include twice-daily brushing and flossing. Set a timer for two minutes every morning and evening and move your brush around the teeth, covering every individual surface. Brush gently to protect the enamel, and use floss or interdental brushes to clean the cracks between the teeth and the gum line. It’s also beneficial to clean your tongue to lower the risk of bad breath.
Think about your diet and when you eat
Most of us are aware that sugary foods and drinks are bad for the teeth but did you know that the frequency with which you eat can also impact oral health? Snacking is harmful to the teeth and it can increase the risk of decay, gum disease and sensitivity. When you eat, bacteria in your mouth release acids, which soften the enamel. Your teeth can withstand a limited number of attacks. If you graze all day, your teeth will be under constant attack and the enamel won’t have a chance to remineralize. Stick to main meals. If you get hungry between meals, choose sugar-free foods, such as raw vegetables, to snack on.
Address dental issues
Very few people have naturally flawless smiles. The good news is that dentists have a huge range of treatments and therapies at their disposal, and they can correct almost any issue imaginable. As well as treating oral health issues, such as gum disease and caries, it’s also possible to explore options to straighten teeth, whiten your smile, close gaps between the teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. If you spot symptoms such as bleeding when you brush, or your smile is affecting your confidence or self-esteem, don’t hesitate to seek advice.
Book a dental check-up
Dental checks only take a few minutes but they can make a huge difference to oral health. Regular appointments reduce the risk of dental disease and they also ensure that any problems or abnormal symptoms can be detected and addressed promptly. Dentists recommend checks every 6-12 months. If you have any issues between examinations, don’t wait for your next scheduled appointment. Call your dentist and pop and see them. It’s always best to intervene early if you have signs of gum disease or symptoms of an oral infection.
Dental problems are relatively common but in most cases, they can be prevented. If you’re on a mission to supercharge your oral health and protect or enhance your smile, take these steps. See your dentist regularly, seek advice if you have any concerns or you’re interested in undergoing treatment, adopt a daily hygiene routine and keep an eye on what and when you eat.
Cheers!
Candy
