Oral health is important for both children and adults. As soon as a baby pops the first tooth, he or she should be introduced to proper oral health. Good oral hygiene practices keep gums and teeth healthy. They remove bad bacteria and plaque that leads to cavities and loss of teeth. Achieving oral health is a lifetime commitment. Here are tips on top ways to take care of oral health.
 

Use the Correct Brushing Technique

It is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing your teeth is only effective when you do it properly. Use small circular motions on every tooth. Brush the top, front, and back of every tooth. Avoid brushing in aggressive back and forth motion that can harm your gums. Use a proper brush with soft bristles. You should change your toothbrush after three months of use.
 

Don’t Skip Mouthwash and Flossing

Floss your teeth at least once a day. Flossing helps to remove food particles trapped between your teeth. It reaches the crevices that the toothbrush cannot reach. Use up and down motions as you floss to avoid hurting your gum. Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash at least once a day helps to control plaque and gingivitis. Mouthwash should not be a substitute for brushing and flossing. Use them together for effective results.
 

Watch Your Diet

Oral health is affected by the foods that you consume. Sugary foods encourage bacteria to colonize your teeth leading to plaque and cavities. If you love sugary snacks and desserts, rinse your mouth with water and mouthwash after indulging. Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold. They cause sensitive teeth. Avoid biting on very hard foods such as candy and hard nuts. They can cause cracks and chips in your teeth. Take a well-balanced diet and stay hydrated. Avoid too much coffee intake since it stains your teeth.
 

Stay Away From Substance Abuse

Drugs and substance abuse are detrimental to your general health. Cigarette smoking stains your teeth, causes bad odor, plaque, and teeth loss. Excessive consumption of alcohol causes the yellowing of teeth. It also compromises the immune system. A poor immune system cannot fight mouth sores, and they end up causing serious oral health problems. Hard drugs result in weak teeth and sick gums.
 

Introduce Children to Oral Health

Some people discover that they should take care of their teeth when it’s too late. Introduce dental care to children as soon as you can. Wipe babies’ gums with a soft cloth and water. Introduce toddlers to brushing and flossing once they understand. Brush children’s teeth with a soft brush until they can do it without help.
 

Keep Up With Your Dental Checkups

Many people detest going to the dentist because they associate dental visits with pain. If you keep up with your cleaning and checkup appointments, you will not get to the pain part soon. Experts recommend that people should visit their dentist at least once a year. Some people need more visits depending on the condition of their teeth.
 

To know more about dental hygiene, visit Riverview Dental at our offices in Corunna, Michigan. You can also call 989-743-4851 to book an appointment.