Healthy Oral Care Practices To Maintain Oral Health

Good oral health means the absence of dental and oral diseases. Good oral health can be achieved through brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and following good oral care habits. Regular dental cleanings and checkups are also part of good oral health. A healthy diet is also part of good oral health.

Why Is It Important To Have Good Oral Health?

The mouth is an entryway to our bodies. It’s how we eat, how we communicate, and it even affects how we look. When your mouth isn’t healthy, it can have lasting effects throughout your body.

The mouth is full of bacteria, and when the bacteria are allowed to build up, they can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Dental diseases are also linked with other health concerns, such as stroke, heart disease, and diabetes.

Healthy Oral Care Practices To Maintain Oral Health

• Brushing, flossing, and rinsing

Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing once a day can help remove food particles and plaque from your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating can help remove food particles between teeth and under your gums, thus helping prevent tooth decay and cavities. 

• Regular checkups

Going to the dentist twice a year for checkups is important for maintaining good oral health. Professional cleanings keep teeth free of plaque and tartar buildup, which are the primary causes of tooth decay and periodontal disease. During your checkup, your dentist will perform a thorough examination to check for cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health problems. If your dentist finds anything, they will devise a treatment plan to restore your oral health.

• Quit smoking

Smoking can severely damage your oral health. In addition to directly harming your teeth, smoking can also increase your risk for oral diseases, such as cancer. If you smoke, consider talking to your doctor about quitting. Your doctor can help you explore strategies and develop a personalized plan to help you quit for good.

• Eat a balanced diet

To maintain a healthy mouth, it’s crucial to eat a healthy diet. A diet that contains a variety of foods from the five main food groups (vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins, and dairy) will help to ensure you are getting the nutrients and vitamins you need.

• Limit oral piercings

Tooth damage can occur when oral piercings chip, crack, or break teeth. A tongue piercing can chip or crack teeth. With lip piercings, multiple teeth may be affected at once. Piercing the inside of your lip can damage teeth. Oral piercings can also cause bone loss, tooth movement, damage to gums, and tooth decay. Having an oral piercing can increase the risk of gum infection. Damage to nerves, blood vessels, and salivary glands can also occur. So, limit or avoid oral piercings. 

• Avoid teeth grinding

Teeth grinding or bruxism is caused by stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite. Unfortunately, chronic teeth grinding can lead to serious dental issues, including tooth damage, jaw pain and headaches, and worn teeth. If your dentist notices signs of teeth grinding during your regular dental checkups, he or she can recommend ways to reduce stress and avoid teeth grinding.

• Protect your teeth during sporting events using mouth guards

If you are involved with a contact sport, the best way to protect your teeth is with a custom mouthguard. Although over-the-counter mouthguards are an option, a custom mouthguard is far superior. A custom mouthguard is designed to fit your mouth and comfortably protect your teeth. It will stay in place during activity and is easy to clean. Mouthguards protect your teeth by preventing injury during impact from falls, collisions, and fights. A properly fitted mouthguard will stay in place, fitting your bite comfortably, so you can breathe and speak properly. If you wear braces, a mouthguard is a great way to protect your teeth and braces.

Wish to learn more oral care tips? Dillon-Costantino Dental can help you. We are located at 10505 West Pico Blvd, West Los Angeles, CA 90064. Call (310) 475-0617 to schedule your appointment.