The mouth is full of bacteria. But, with proper care and home maintenance, you can help make sure this bacteria stays in your mouth and doesn’t spread throughout your body. Learn more about the importance of oral health and steps to put into practice so that you don’t have to worry about protecting what matters most.
Why is Oral Health Important?
Your mouth is the gateway to your body. Every time you eat or drink, you’re introducing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms into your system. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your mouth and keep it healthy.
Good oral hygiene starts with brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day. But that’s just the start. Here are four more important steps in maintaining a healthy mouth:
1. Visit your dentist regularly
You should see your dentist for a checkup at least once a year. Depending on your oral health, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. During a checkup, your dentist will clean your teeth and look for any signs of problems, such as tooth decay or gum disease.
2. Eat a healthy diet
What you eat affects your oral health. A diet high in sugar can lead to tooth decay, while a diet low in calcium can make your teeth weaker and more prone to cavities. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is good for both your overall health and your oral health.
3. Do not use any tobacco products. If you smoke, quit.
4. Limit alcoholic drinks.
5. If you have diabetes, work to maintain control of the disease. This will decrease risk for other complications, including gum disease. Treating gum disease may help lower your blood sugar level.
6. If your medication causes dry mouth, ask your doctor for a different medication that may not cause this condition. If dry mouth cannot be avoided, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco products and alcohol.
How To Ensure Good Oral Health
There are many things that you can do to ensure good oral health. brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, using a mouthwash, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups are all important steps in maintaining a healthy mouth.
What Causes Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay is caused by the buildup of plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth.
Once the enamel is gone, the plaque can get into the inner layer of your tooth, called dentin. The dentin is softer than enamel and decay can happen quickly. You may not see or feel any decay in the early stages.
Tooth decay is preventable. You can help prevent tooth decay by brushing and flossing your teeth every day and by eating a healthy diet.
Foods to Eat For Good Oral Health
There are a few key foods that are particularly good for oral health. These include:
- Raw vegetables: Raw vegetables are abrasive and help to clean teeth naturally. They also contain minerals and vitamins that are good for overall health.
- Green tea: Green tea contains antioxidants which can help to protect against gum disease.
- Cheese: Cheese helps to balance the pH in the mouth and can reduce the risk of tooth decay.
- Yogurt: Yogurt contains probiotics which are beneficial for oral health. It also helps to remove plaque from teeth.
Conclusion
There are a few important steps in maintaining a healthy mouth. brushing and flossing regularly, visiting the dentist for cleanings and checkups, and eating a balanced diet are all key components in keeping your smile shining brightly. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy good oral health for many years to come.
