Do you think your smile is the best part of your personality? Then it’s important to protect your smile by following some basic daily oral care hygiene routines. If you make these 8 tips a part of your routine, you can keep that gorgeous smile intact, say goodbye to your dental problems and improve your overall health.
1. Brush twice a day
We are sure you have heard this before! Brushing at night as you end your day is something most people forget. More than 70% of people in urban India are too lazy or ignorant to brush their teeth at night as per an Indian Dental conference. Brushing at night can help prevent cavities by more than 40% as per studies.
It’s important to brush at night to get rid of the plague and germs that may have accumulated in your mouth throughout the day. Making this a part of your routine can be difficult but you can make it easier by setting reminders in your phone or using a smart toothbrush that reminds you to brush your teeth at night.
2. Choose soft bristles over hard ones
While many people believe that hard bristles can clean our teeth better these bristles can actually cause more damage than good. Using an ultra-soft bristle toothbrush can protect your teeth from erosion and enamel damage. Charcoal infused bristles are also a great option as these can remove stains on your teeth making them look bright and squeaky clean!
3. Change your toothbrush/toothbrush head every 3 months
Dentists around the world recommend changing your toothbrush every three months. But, why do they say so? One of the major reasons to change your toothbrush is the bacteria and fungi that get accumulated in your toothbrush after prolonged usage.
To avoid diseases of the gums and teeth, it’s best to keep changing toothbrushes. A better solution would be to opt for an electric toothbrush which most people prefer these days due to multiple benefits - one of them being you only need to change the toothbrush head every 3 months rather than changing the entire toothbrush. An electric toothbrush also cleans better as it reaches the parts and corners of your mouth where a manual toothbrush can’t.
4. Reduce your sugar intake
Remember how your parents used to scold you for eating too many chocolates as a kid? Well, your mouth is still reacting the same way to sugary foods even as an adult. Sugary foods are loved by bacteria which lead to tooth decay. Sugar and starch in your mouth react with your saliva and create an acid that erodes your dental enamel and can cause cavity and tooth decay to a great extent. So, mind those calories as it will help you with not just better oral care but also your overall fitness and health.
5. Consider using a mouthwash
A mouthwash may seem unnecessary especially if you don’t know its benefits. But, most dentists recommend using a mouthwash for the following reasons 1) A good probiotic mouthwash helps reduce the bacteria buildup in your mouth thus preventing bad odour and breath. 2) It helps keep your gums healthy and prevents germs from building up on your teeth. While mouthwash must be added to your daily routine, it’s important to pick the right kind of mouthwash.
Alcohol-based mouthwash which one regularly finds in the market does not suit everybody. It can cause a burning sensation and dry mouth for people who have sensitive skin. Also, the synthetic materials in mouthwashes can be harmful so opt for natural, probiotic ones which are soothing and also functional.
6. Floss like a boss
Many people use multiple things to remove food stuck between their teeth. We all know how this can be harmful and can cause food to stay stuck in your mouth for longer hours. The best solution is to make flossing a part of your daily routine. You may experience difficulty initially using a string floss as it becomes easier to use only with practice. For kids, it’s even more difficult to use as it can cause cuts and burns if not used properly.
There are several alternatives available these days to string floss- one of the most preferred ones is the water flosser. Once you start using a water flosser you are definitely not going back! This amazing flosser through the targeted stream of water helps remove plaque, germs and food particles stuck in between teeth. So, floss like a boss and thank us later!
7. Don’t ignore your tongue
The tongue is the most ignored part of oral care. Along with brushing your teeth, cleaning your tongue is also essential. Cleaning your tongues helps prevent bad breath and the deposition of food. You can use a tongue cleaner or the back of your toothbrush for cleaning your tongue.
A good mouthwash can also prove to be effective. Raw fruits and vegetables can help clean your tongue by eliminating bacteria deposits on your tongue. Cleaning your tongue frequently can prevent bad breath and give you a fresh feeling in your mouth. Investing in a good tongue cleaner can be a game-changer for your dental and oral care routine.
8. Say yes to regular dental check-ups
When did you last visit a dentist? If your answer is anything more than 6 months or 1 year then you need to run to a dentist soon. A regular dental check-up is essential to keep your oral health in check. Your dental health is an excellent indicator of your overall health.
A lot of dental problems when diagnosed in the early stages can be treated at a lower cost. Once the problem becomes serious the complications and costs increase hence earlier diagnosis is advised. You can also get some great recommendations from your dentist whenever you go for a checkup.
Your smile is one of the first things people notice and a great smile can make you feel confident in photos and while speaking in front of people. So, make these 8 tips a part of your daily routine and smile your best smile!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What is a good oral care routine?
A good oral care routine is one you can easily follow and maintain. Ensure you use a good toothbrush, floss, tongue cleaner and a good mouthwash. Using these products and making them a part of your routine can be a great first step.
2. How can I take care of my mouth daily?
You can take care of your mouth daily by following some basic routine. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day, use a good mouthwash and be regular with your dental check-ups.