Nobody wants to feel self-conscious about bad breath or discolored teeth when they open their mouth. It is very easy to practice basic, good oral hygiene that can help to avoid the latter problems. Having poor hygiene can lead to far more serious problems, however, such as cavities and gum disease. Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to your own oral hygiene.
Daily Cleaning
You should be cleaning your teeth regularly (twice a day) to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Using a manual toothbrush is absolutely fine, as it will still be cleaning your teeth. However, electric toothbrushes have been proven to clean more thoroughly than manual brushing. There is also the risk that you could be brushing your teeth too hard. This can irritate and wear-down the soft tissue of your gums, resulting in them receding. It is still possible to do this with an electric toothbrush, but there are models you can buy that indicate to you when this is happening. Whether you choose to stick to a manual toothbrush or invest in an electric one, the best way to keep up good oral hygiene is with daily cleaning.
Flossing
This is another thing that should be included in your daily routine. You can floss after each meal if you so wish, although flossing once a day is perfectly acceptable. The spaces between your teeth aren’t easy to get to. They are unlikely to be cleaned properly with only the use of a toothbrush. Flossing is perfect for getting into those hard to reach places and removing and plaque that has built up there. The reason you want to stop plaque building up is because it contains bacteria that can cause decaying teeth and gum disease. It’s easy to forget about flossing, but it really can make a big difference to your oral health.
Dentures
This isn’t necessary for everyone, but for those who do use dentures, it’s worth a mention. Your dentist should have talked you through how to clean them properly, rinse after each meal, soak them at night, etc. You should also be cleaning them the same way you would natural teeth for good measure. When it comes to keeping your dentures in place, you will need to use adhesives to do that. It is important that you find the right type of adhesive for you, don’t ignore any discomfort as that could be an allergic reaction.
Dentist Visits
For many people going to the dentist can be a nightmare. However, if you avoid going to regular check-up appointments, this can lead to serious problems; it can make the next time you visit even more painful! Having a professional inspect the state of your mouth is one of the most effective ways of keeping up your oral hygiene. Your dentist can see things you can’t and will be able to advise you on any improvements or treatments that you may need to have.
If you want to keep your mouth healthy, follow these basic oral hygiene rules.
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