Blog

Good oral health is about more than just your teeth. In fact, it is an overall sense of well-being. While your teeth are an important part of your oral health, your gums, tongue, cheeks, and other oral tissues are just as vital. Here are the practices that should be followed to maintain good oral health:

• Brushing and flossing

Brushing and flossing are the most effective ways to maintain the overall health of your mouth. Brush your teeth after each meal or at least twice a day using a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. It’s advised to brush your teeth for two minutes. It is also advised to floss your teeth at least once a day to prevent the accumulation of plaque and tartar in between the teeth. 

• Regular dental visits

Regular dental visits are important because they allow your dentist to examine your teeth and gums, which helps them identify dental problems early. When these problems are treated early, they typically don’t require more extensive treatment. Your dentist will also perform a teeth cleaning which will prevent the onset of several dental diseases. 

• Eat a healthy diet

One of the best things you can do for your oral health is to eat a healthy diet. This way, your mouth will be getting all of the nutrients it needs to remain healthy. Eating a healthy diet can also help prevent certain oral diseases. You should eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. These foods are high in fiber and can help clean your teeth while you are eating.

• Use alcohol-free mouthwash

Alcohol-free mouthwash can help with keeping your mouth clean. It rinses away bacteria and food particles, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

• Quit smoking

Smoking cigarettes and cigars can lead to gum disease. It can also lead to oral cancer, which is the sixth most common type of cancer in the United States. Even secondhand smoking can lead to gum disease. Quitting tobacco is a great way to restore your oral health. According to a study published in the Journal of Dental Research, smokers are more susceptible to periodontal disease, including gum recession, severe bone loss, and tooth loss. If you need help quitting, visit your doctor or dentist. They can recommend effective methods to help you quit. 

• Avoid clenching or grinding your teeth

Jaw clenching and tooth grinding, also known as bruxism, can do a lot of harm to your smile. These habits can cause tooth sensitivity, headaches, enamel erosion, and gum recession. It is important to practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga, as they can help decrease your stress levels. You can help protect your smile by wearing a night guard while you sleep. Many patients experience a significant improvement in overall wellness after using this type of appliance.

• Avoid chewing on hard objects

Hard foods, such as ice, popcorn kernels, hard candy, nuts, and beef jerky, can crack or fracture your teeth. This is especially true for teeth with fillings or dental work. So, never chew on hard objects. 

Schedule an appointment with Premier Dental Group HI if you are looking for ways to improve your oral health. Contact us from your nearest location or visit our website to book an appointment.