When it comes to personal health, there are countless things you should be mindful of. You need to drink eight glasses of water a day, stand up after an hour of sitting, sleep for eight hours every night and make sure to stretch every day.
Many of these tips are somewhat easy to follow and they’re all part of maintaining a healthy and fruitful life.
One of the more overlooked daily health to-dos is dental health. When it comes to brushing and flossing, many people end up just throwing it in later, not taking the steps seriously enough to maintain proper oral health.
So, what are the easy ways you can make sure you’re maintaining proper oral health? How can you make sure your smile is so white it blinds people?
Brush and Floss Regularly
This one should go without saying but the truth is many people aren’t brushing their teeth enough every day.
The general rule of thumb should be two times per day, once in the morning and once before you go to bed. Brushing before dozing off is the most important one, as it’s going to eliminate the plaque and bacteria that’s built up during the day.
Flossing is also incredibly important, that it reaches all of those spots your toothbrush can’t reach. It not only removes that annoying popcorn kernel, but it’s a way to lower inflammation and help stimulate the gums.
Upgrade Your Brushing
Hundreds of years ago, people were using horse-hair toothbrushes to keep their mouth clean. For starters, that sounds incredibly painful! Plus, it’s not a very effective way to keep your mouth clean.
Consider buying a top-of-the-line toothbrush, like an electric one. Electric toothbrushes don’t require the pressure that regular, handheld brushes do. That means you won’t be taking off any protective enamel while you brush and you’ll lower the possibility for receding gums.
Even though you’re used to only brushing your teeth, make sure you brush your tongue as well. Your tongue is a place of bacteria and it needs regular cleaning just like your teeth do. If you don’t want to brush your tongue, you can always purchase a tongue cleaner which will help take away the bacteria. Plus, it will help your breath smell fresh and clean.
Use Mouthwash
Feel the burn! Unfortunately, most people stray away from mouthwash because of that annoying burn that hits our gums and throat like gasoline on a fire. There’s usually a reason people seem to count faster while using mouthwash.
Mouthwash, while not an ideal substitute, is the next best solution for those who don’t like flossing. It helps reach those areas that are difficult to reach while brushing or impossible to reach while flossing.
It’s important to ask your dentist about different types of mouthwash, as some are better suited for those with sensitive teeth.
Visit the Dentist
Even though going to the dentist may win the award of “Things I Really Don’t Want to Do”, it’s necessary for the long-term health of your teeth. Not only will you get a regular cleaning, but your general dentist will be able to advise you on your oral health and help with any other issues.
For example, if you have a chipped tooth your general dentist may not be able to help you but can send you to someone who can.
Make going to the dentist twice a year a priority, even if you sigh in angst every time.
Mind Your Diet
Just as water, fruits and vegetables can help you with your overall bodily health. Most dentists recommend that you have your glass of water after every meal as it can remove some plaque, acid, or sticky foods that you may not clean off until you start brushing.
Fruits and vegetables, especially the crunchy ones, will help you jaw work and stay strong. Consider it a workout for your teeth and jaw, making sure they stay strong and fit for the long run.
Finally, avoid over sugary or acidic foods and drinks. That means cutting back on sodas and coffee especially. Try eating an apple instead, which can give you more energy and important vitamins over the course of the day!
