You eat right, exercise regularly, and go for annual medical checkups. Why? You want to stay healthy and avoid complications such as Alzheimer’s Disease and heart attacks.
Did you know that poor dental hygiene is a common cause of many serious diseases? If you’ve recently skipped a brushing session, you could be compromising your heart, brain, and body—but it’s not too late to turn things around.
Who knew the right toothbrush could prevent cancer or diabetes?
We’ve created this guide to offer a few simple tips to help you reclaim your oral and physical health. Continue reading to learn how a few small changes can improve your quality of life.
Table of Contents
Brush Your Teeth Correctly
Adding “brush your teeth” to a list of oral hygiene tips seems obvious, but it’s a big deal. Many individuals brush their teeth incorrectly, allowing bacteria to settle in and cause dental decay. The key to effective cavity prevention is brushing your teeth following dentist-approved procedures.
Foremost, begin brushing in the back of your mouth. Your molars have more grooves than the teeth at the front, which are more likely to harbor food and acid. When you start with those difficult back teeth, you’re more likely to give them the focused attention they deserve.
Other toothbrushing tips include:
- Brush for at least two minutes
- Use fluoride toothpaste
- Brush twice each day, morning and evening
- Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle
- Use circular up-and-down movements
- Apply gentle pressure
- Focus on teeth individually
- Brush your tongue and gums
- Clean your toothbrush thoroughly between uses
Changing how you brush your teeth can be challenging because of long-term habits formed during childhood. Try to be mindful while you brush rather than sleeping through the routine like a zombie.
Choose the Right Toothbrush
Dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every two to three months., but standing in front of the wall of toothbrushes at the store can be overwhelming. Many of us reach for the one with the prettiest colors.
The next time you shop for a new brush, dentists recommend choosing a soft-bristled one.
There is a misconception that a hard, firm, or medium-bristled brush will clean your teeth better than a soft brush. In reality, these tools can be abrasive, stripping enamel and compromising the integrity of your teeth over time.
Furthermore, consider switching to an electric toothbrush. An eleven-year study by the Oral Health Foundation has found that electric brushes do a better job. They are better at cleaning teeth and eliminating harmful bacteria than manual brushes. Choose a model with a rotating head for the most beneficial brush.
Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings
Even with the perfect toothbrush and technique, you can’t fight plaque and defeat decay alone. Regular dental cleaning is critical to long-term dental health. If you haven’t seen a dentist for general care and maintenance, it’s time to call and schedule an appointment.
Here are a few tips for choosing the right dentist:
- Read online reviews
- Choose an office with hours that work for you
- Find an office that’s accessible in case of dental emergencies
- Learn about their schooling and credentials
- Ask if they offer sedation dentistry
- Ensure they accept your insurance
- Ask about payment plans
- Look for a clean, organized office
- Assess the ease of making an appointment
- Consider the friendliness of the office staff
Choosing a trustworthy practitioner who makes you feel comfortable is the most important factor. Personalized, friendly dental care will ensure you return for future cleanings and follow-up care.
Professionals recommend scheduling a cleaning at least once annually. Most dentists prefer to see patients twice a year or every six months. This can help prevent problems ranging from bad breath to yellow teeth and help you catch more severe issues early.
Stop “Grazing” on Coffee or Tea
Many people can’t sit still unless they have a hot drink sitting on the desk beside them. They might spend the entire day “grazing” on their drink, taking occasional sips throughout the morning and afternoon. These habits can be detrimental to your long-term oral health.
Sugar is a food source for various types of bacteria. When you sip on coffee or soda throughout the day, you provide a consistent food source for those harmful organisms. Many bacterial organisms produce acids as a byproduct, which erodes the minerals in your teeth, causing cavities.
You can slow this process by consuming your beverage at once rather than offering your bacteria sugar to snack on throughout the day. Alternate sugary drinks with water, or rinse your mouth between beverages.
All Effort Is Good Effort
It can be difficult to address your basic oral health needs if you have an executive dysfunction or mood disorder. Remember that all effort is good effort, and even small actions can have positive long-term effects.
Consider using disposable brushing tools or chewable hygiene tablets if brushing is a struggle. If nothing else, try to rinse your mouth with water at the end of the day. Even chewing sugar-free gum can help reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth.
If you struggle with sensory issues, speak to your dentist about sensory-friendly toothbrushes or toothpaste options.
Prioritize Your Dental Hygiene
Despite what insurance companies believe, your teeth are part of your body. You only get one pair in a lifetime, and proper dental hygiene will ensure they stay in good shape from beginning to end. Take this opportunity to buy a new brush, switch up your brushing routine, and make an appointment for your annual dental cleaning today. What other ways are you prioritizing yourself? Consider treating your brain to a fresh burst of knowledge. Check out the rest of the blog for more informative posts to help you make positive changes and thriv
