Maintaining good dental health is important for everyone. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the do’s and don’ts of oral health. We will also provide some helpful tips on how to keep your teeth healthy and free from cavities. Follow these tips and you’ll be on your way to having a healthy smile!
DO keep your regular dental appointments
It’s important to see your dentist regularly, even if you don’t have any dental problems.
Here are a few reasons why:
- Your dentist can detect early signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.
- Your dentist can provide you with professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar from your teeth.
- Your dentist can give you tips on how to improve your at-home oral care routine.
It’s best to see a reputable dentist every six months, but be sure to schedule an appointment more often if you have dental problems or a history of cavities.
DO floss daily
Flossing is an important part of oral care because it helps remove plaque and food particles from teeth that brushing alone cannot reach. To floss effectively, use about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers. Gently insert the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Be sure to use a gentle touch so you don’t damage your gums. When you reach the gum line, curve the floss into a C shape and slide it up and down the tooth. Repeat this process for all of your teeth.
DO brush your teeth twice a day
Brushing your teeth is one of the most important things you can do to maintain good oral health. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothbrush that has soft bristles. Use gentle circular motions and be sure to brush on the inside surfaces of your teeth. Finish up by brush your tongue (or use a tongue scraper) to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
DON’T bite your nails
Biting your nails can damage your teeth and gums. It can also lead to infections if bacteria from your nails gets into your mouth. If you bite your nails, be sure to brush and floss afterwards to remove any bacteria that may have been transferred. This is especially important if you have cuts or scrapes on your fingers.
DON’T use your teeth as tools
Your teeth are not meant to be used as tools, such as for opening bottles or tearing open packages. This can damage your teeth and lead to dental problems. If you need to open something, find a tool that can do the job, such as a pair of scissors or a can opener.
DON’T smoke
Smoking is bad for your oral health and can cause a variety of problems, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. This is because smoking decreases the amount of saliva in your mouth, which can lead to dry mouth. Dry mouth is a condition that allows plaque and bacteria to build up on teeth, which can eventually lead to tooth decay.
DON’T brush too hard
Brushing your teeth too hard can damage your gums and cause them to bleed. It can also lead to enamel wear and make your teeth more susceptible to cavities.
Some people think that harder is better when it comes to brushing their teeth, but this is not the case. Use gentle circular motions and a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your teeth and gums.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a few things you should do to maintain good oral health, as well as a few things you should avoid. It’s important to brush and floss daily, see your dentist regularly, and avoid habits that can damage your teeth. If you follow these tips, you’ll be on your way to having a healthy smile!