How good is your oral hygiene? Are your teeth and gums in good condition? When it comes to having healthy teeth and gums, these are just two of the many questions you should ask yourself on a regular basis. Good oral hygiene is a process that takes much more than regular visits to the dentist; it must start with a good routine at home, first. Here are a few tips to keep your mouth as healthy as possible.
Use a good toothbrush
There are virtually countless numbers of toothbrush options available for you to choose from. Finding the right toothbrush may require a little trial and error, but your beautiful smile will be well worth the effort. Look for a toothbrush that has round, soft bristles. This type of toothbrush is less likely to damage your gums while brushing. It’s also a good idea to look for a brush that has crisscross-style bristles. This style can reach into small crevasses, so it does a much better job of getting rid of plaque in between your teeth.
Floss daily
It’s important that you make flossing a priority in your daily dental routine. Flossing is one of the most effective ways to remove food and other particles that are trapped between the teeth. When you skip flossing, these particles can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria that can cause gum disease. To keep the habit of flossing fresh on your mind, make it a point to floss your teeth after each meal.
Watch your diet
Watching what you eat is just as important to your oral health as it is to the overall health of your body. If it’s not good for your body, chances are it’s not good for teeth and gums, either. Avoid treats like candy bars, cookies and soft drinks that are loaded with sugar. Sugar creates a nice home for plaque to develop. Untreated, the plaque can turn into gingivitis, a form of gum disease. A healthy, balanced diet full of vegetables, fruit and water is a great way to maintain your healthy teeth and gums.