Oral health is an important part of your overall health and the appearance of your smile. There are a lot of things that put our oral health at risk. In fact, today there are about 400 medications on the market that cause dry mouth and increase the risk of oral diseases, according to Shortlister, a database on health statistics. There are also several steps you can take daily that will protect and improve your oral health. Keep reading to learn more!

Flossing

Daily flossing is one of the most powerful ways you can protect your oral health. Flossing removes bacteria and food particles that get stuck between your teeth. Not only can these things cause tooth decay, but they can also cause periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced stage of gum disease that can damage both the gum and the surrounding teeth. In severe cases, it can even damage the jaw bone. One sign of this disease is bleeding gums. Other symptoms include bad breath, receding gums, tooth pain, and even teeth that shift. Flossing will help to prevent this problem.

Brushing Twice a Day

According to our dental team, if you brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each session, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come. It can help if you set a timer or hum a little tune that is two minutes long while you are brushing. Setting a timer will help you to see how you probably haven’t been brushing for an actual two minutes in the past.

Brush Properly

There are actually proper brushing techniques that need to be used every day. The proper brushing technique is to use small circular motions when brushing. This will give you better coverage of the tooth with the toothbrush. It’s the better method for your gums as well to avoid damaging the soft tissue.

Use Fluoride Products

Fluoride mouthwash and toothpaste are great products that you can use to help strengthen the enamel of your teeth. It helps to prevent cavities from forming. Adding fluoride to your oral health routine can make a big difference. Talk with your dental services about which products you should be using.

Avoid Sugary Foods

Sugar can be bad for you for many reasons, but one reason is that it's a direct contributor to tooth decay. Many sugary foods cling to teeth and create a breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria love to feed on sugar, so if there are bacteria present in your mouth, and you are eating a lot of sugary foods, you will start to see negative results. This can manifest as tooth decay and gum disease. Try to break the sugar habit by replacing candy and soda with healthier snacks and water.

Clearly, excellent oral health begins with brushing, flossing, and seeing a professional dentist. If you're looking for dependable dental services, please contact Harvard Dental Group today. We are here for all of your dental needs.