How Can You Maintain Good Oral Health At Home?

Oral health can mean different things to different people, and each person's definition may vary. However, oral health usually means the health and appearance of your teeth and gums. This includes all aspects of your mouth, including your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth.

The mouth is the gateway to the body, so maintaining excellent oral health is important for overall health. Many systemic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis, have oral symptoms. For example, people with diabetes can suffer from dry mouth and thrush, and osteoporosis causes teeth to become brittle and break.

You can maintain your oral health by following simple dental tips that include:

Brush and Floss Your Teeth Daily

Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day are the best ways to maintain good oral health at home. Brushing removes plaque, which contains bacteria that causes tooth decay. Flossing eliminates the food particles and plaque that get stuck between your teeth. You should also brush your tongue, which harbors bacteria that cause bad breath.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

A healthy diet is not only good for your body, but it's also necessary for keeping teeth and gums strong.

Try to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, plus stick to whole grains and lean proteins. Avoid large amounts of sugar and starches, which can encourage bacteria growth.

Limit Your Sugar Intake

When it comes to your oral health, sugar is your enemy! A diet high in sugar contributes to tooth decay. Bacteria in the mouth feed on sugar and produce acids that eat away at the enamel of your teeth, eventually causing cavities. Limiting your intake of sugary foods and drinks is important to your oral health.

Quit Using Tobacco Products

Tobacco products are not healthy for your mouth. They cause gum recession and tooth decay. They also increase your risk for oral cancer and gum disease. If you want to have healthy teeth and gums, you should quit using tobacco products.

Say 'No' To Alcohol

Alcohol is often thought to be a great home remedy for toothache. Many patients get alcohol from the store and apply it to their gums to numb the pain. However, contrary to what most people think, alcohol can make the pain worse. It will only temporarily numb the area, and the pain will return as soon as you remove the alcohol. It can also dry out your gum tissue, making the condition worse.

Avoid Chewing On Ice or Other Hard Objects

Chewing on ice or hard candy can damage your teeth. The aggressive action can chip or crack a tooth. 

You should also avoid chewing on pens, pencils, and fingernails. These types of items can easily damage your teeth and gums, leading to pain, discomfort, and infections.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly 

Visiting your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup can help maintain your oral health. During your appointment, your dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth by removing any plaque buildup and polishing them. Your dentist will also examine your teeth and check for any signs of decay, infection, or gum disease.

If you are experiencing signs of dental problems, your dentist will recommend treatment. For example, if you have a cavity, your dentist can repair it with a dental filling.

To learn more about our dental procedures, visit ROBERT A. OGIE DDS at 2730 W 16th St, Yuma, AZ 85364. Call us at (928) 726-9262 to book an appointment.