Blog

Do you know good oral health is linked to your overall health? Poor oral health can lead to other health issues such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Good oral health also impacts your self-esteem and confidence. A beautiful smile and sparkling white teeth are signs of good oral health.

How Can I Improve My Oral Health?

Good oral health is not just about brushing and flossing. In order to maintain good oral hygiene, you need to make sure you schedule regular visits with your dental team and follow some oral care practices. Here are a few practices you should follow to take care of your teeth and mouth:

• Regular dental checkups

Having regular dental checkups ensures that cavities and periodontal diseases are identified and treated in their earliest stages. This not only prevents further damage but also saves you both time and money in the long run.

Additionally, getting regular dental checkups helps to ensure that your teeth remain healthy. Your dentist can also recommend preventative care techniques that you can practice at home between visits. This can help to protect your smile and enhance your quality of life.

• Brush and floss daily

Brushing and flossing regularly are the best ways to achieve a healthy smile. When you don’t brush and floss, you’re allowing plaque and bacteria to linger in your mouth. Over time, these will break down the enamel on the surface of your teeth, causing cavities. Brushing helps remove food particles and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. It also gets rid of leftover food particles that get stuck in between teeth. Make sure you brush for at least two minutes twice a day and floss once a day.

• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

Oral care tools should be replaced regularly because plaque and other bacteria can build up on the toothbrush bristles. A toothbrush should be replaced at least every 3-4 months or when the bristles become frayed.

• Use a mouthwash

Mouthwash can help kill bacteria, balance pH levels, and freshen breath. Make sure to use a fluoride mouthwash, but avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol.

• Smoke-free lifestyle

Smoking can negatively affect your oral and overall health. Smoking can stain your teeth, increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer, and increase your risk for tooth loss. Smoking can also impact your cardiovascular health, cause breathing problems, and result in infertility. So, quit the habit of smoking at the earliest.

• Limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks

It’s important to limit your consumption of sugary foods and drinks. These foods and drinks can cause tooth decay and cavities. They are typically high in sugar content, so the bacteria on your teeth feed off that sugar and create acids that eat away at the enamel on your teeth. Gradually, this causes tooth decay and erosion. So, limit sugar consumption and opt for a balanced, nutritious meal instead.

Schedule an appointment with Silver Firs Dental to have a consultation with our family dentist. We are at 13209 44th Ave SE #201, Mill Creek, WA 98012. Contact us at (425) 225-5757 or visit our website to book an appointment.