Achieving healthy teeth takes a lifetime of management. It is very important to choose the right steps every day to take care of your teeth and avoid dental issues.
This involves getting the proper oral care products, as well as being mindful of your daily habits.
It’s no secret that the general suggestion is to brush at least two times a day. Still, many of us continue to fail to brush our teeth at night.
But brushing before sleep eliminates the germ and plaque accumulation of the day.
Doing a poor job brushing your teeth is nearly as bad as not brushing at all. Take your time gliding the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove the plaque deposits.
Unremoved plaque can harden, leading to calculus build-up and gingivitis.
Plaque build-up can also occur on your tongue. Not only can this advance to bad breath, but it can lead to other oral health issues. Don’t forget to brush your tongue gently when you brush your teeth.
When it comes to toothpaste, there are more important elements to consider than whitening power and flavours. No matter which variant you choose, make sure it contains fluoride.
This is because fluoride is a leading defence against cavities. It works by eliminating germs that can lead to tooth decay, as well as providing a protective barrier for your teeth.
Many people who brush regularly ignore flossing. Flossing is not just for reaching those little pieces of food that may be getting stuck between your teeth.
It’s also a way to stimulate the gums, reduce plaque, and help lower inflammation in the area.
Advertisements tell us that mouthwash is required for good oral health, but many people don’t know how they work.
Mouthwash decreases the amount of acid in the mouth, cleans hard-to-reach areas in and around the gums, and remineralises the teeth.
Mouthwashes are useful as an extra tool to help balance your oral health.
Water is still the best beverage for your overall health — including oral health. It is suggested to drink plenty of water after every meal.
This can help flush out some of the adverse effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes.
Ready-to-eat foods are convenient, but not when it comes to your teeth. Eating fresh, crunchy products not only provides more healthy fibre, but it’s also the best choice for your teeth.
Sugar converts into acid in the mouth that can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids lead to tooth decay.
Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee can also erode tooth enamel. While you are not required to avoid such foods altogether, it doesn’t hurt to be aware.
Your daily habits are crucial to your overall oral health.
Still, even the most dedicated brushers and flossers need to see a dentist regularly, normally every six months, for cleanings and check-ups.
Not only can a dentist remove calculus and look for cavities, but they will also be able to detect potential issues and offer solutions.
At Smiles Nambour, our goal is not only to give you the smile you deserve but also help you keep it for life! With our comprehensive preventive dentistry services, a bright and healthy smile is possible.
Talk to us today and start your journey towards better oral health for a lifetime!
HCF’s More for Teeth Program is here to help you maintain great oral health. Available to all HCF members with Extras cover, it includes two fully covered check-ups and cleans each year.
To find out more about family dental care in Nambour, call us on (07) 5441 4438 or visit us at 4/104 Currie St in Nambour.
We are located at 4/104 Currie Street in Nambour.
Many people are unaware that having periodontal disease (the destruction of gum tissue and bone that hold our teeth in place) can affect your overall health. Periodontal disease is one of the most common infections; often more prevalent than the common cold! Periodontal disease is not only the number one reason people lose teeth; it can also affect the health of your body!Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, and in its earliest stages, it’s called gingivitis. It starts when an accumulation of plaque (a colony of bacteria, food debris, and saliva) is NOT regularly removed from the gums and teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce toxins/acids that irritate and infect the gums and eventually destroy the jaw bone that supports the teeth. When periodontal disease is not treated it can eventually lead to tooth loss! There are numerous studies that have looked into the correlation between gum disease and major medical conditions. These studies suggest people with periodontal disease are at a greater risk of systemic disease and indicate that periodontal disease may cause oral bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to major organs and begin new infections. Research suggests that periodontal bacteria in the blood stream may:
Researchers conclude there is still much research to be done to understand the link between periodontal disease and systemic diseases, but enough research has been done to support that infections in the mouth can play havoc elsewhere in the body. To ensure a healthy, disease-free mouth, we recommend the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings, which include a periodontal evaluation. Also, diligent home care and a proper diet can help reduce the plaque and bacteria in the mouth. Remember the mouth body connection! Taking care of your oral health may contribute to your overall medical health!