Our mouth is a reflection of our overall health. Neglected oral hygiene can cause problems in the teeth, gums, but also throughout the body. It is therefore essential to take care of our mouth on a daily basis, by adopting good habits that will allow us to maintain a dazzling smile and strong health. Here are some simple and effective tips to put into practice every day
Brush your teeth regularly
Brushing your teeth is an essential step for good oral hygiene. It helps get rid of dental plaque, which is a layer of bacteria that is deposited on the teeth and which can cause cavities, gingivitis or periodontitis. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, for two minutes, with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. It is also important to renew your toothbrush every three months or as soon as the bristles are damaged.
Using dental floss and mouthwash
Brushing your teeth does not clean all the nooks and crannies between your teeth where plaque can build up. It is therefore necessary to supplement brushing with the use of dental floss , which allows it to pass between the teeth and remove food remains and bacteria. Floss once a day, preferably in the evening, using delicate movements and avoiding injury to the gums . Mouthwash can also be beneficial for rinsing the mouth and strengthening the action of fluoride. You should choose an alcohol-free mouthwash and use it after brushing your teeth.
Have a balanced diet limited in sugars
Diet has an important influence on oral health. Sugary foods and drinks encourage the formation of plaque and cavities, giving bacteria energy to produce acids that attack tooth enamel. We must therefore reduce sugar consumption, especially between meals, and favor healthy and varied foods, rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber, which contribute to the health of teeth and gums. You should drink plenty of water in order to hydrate the mouth and eliminate waste .
Visit the dentist regularly
The dentist is the specialist in oral health. It can detect and treat possible tooth and gum problems, such as cavities, gingivitis , periodontitis, abscesses, infections or trauma. He can also provide preventative care, such as scaling, polishing or fluoride application, which helps strengthen teeth and prevent disease . It is advisable to consult the dentist at least once a year, from a young age, and to follow his advice to maintain good oral hygiene.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol are risk factors for oral health. Tobacco causes a decrease in saliva, which is essential for protecting teeth and gums. It also promotes the appearance of dental plaque, tartar, stains, yellowing of teeth , bad odors, inflammation and bleeding of the gums.
It also increases the risk of cancer of the mouth, tongue, pharynx or larynx. Alcohol, for its part, has an irritating and drying effect on the oral mucosa. It can also cause cavities , dental erosion, infections or cancer .
Protect yourself from trauma
Trauma to the mouth and teeth can occur at any age, during a fall, accident, blow or bite. They can cause injuries , fractures, displacements or loss of teeth, which can have aesthetic, functional and psychological consequences . You must therefore protect yourself from trauma by wearing a helmet, a seat belt or a mouth guard, depending on the activity carried out. In the event of trauma, consult the dentist quickly , who will be able to assess the situation and offer the most appropriate treatment.
Raise awareness and educate from childhood
Oral health education is essential to prevent disease and complications. It must start from childhood, by teaching children the actions and habits that will allow them to maintain healthy teeth and gums throughout their lives. Parents, teachers, health professionals and the media have an important role to play in raising awareness and educating children about oral health. They can provide them with information, advice, examples and encouragement , which will help them adopt responsible and positive behavior towards their mouth.
