We all know how important it is to take care of our teeth. Our oral health can have massive effects on our overall physical health. According to an article published by the Cleveland Clinic, “Poor oral health can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, endocarditis, pregnancy and birth complications, and more.” There’s no need to worry, though! Keep reading to learn 6 simple things to do now to improve your oral health.
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What Dr. Dalton’s Experience Teaches Us
“Most people don’t like to floss their teeth. I’m not sure why, but flossing is the most neglected of the six steps we discuss in this blog. It’s been this way for 20 years, and that’s too bad. Flossing cleans your teeth and exercises your gums. If you’re not flossing, you’re more prone to gum bleeding, cavities, and gum disease. This can affect your overall health. There is a direct link between oral health and heart health, so you’ve got to take care of your teeth and gums. If flossing isn’t for you, then use a water floss. There are lots of them on the market, but the most well-known brand is Waterpik. I use a water flosser daily and add some Listerine to the water for a refreshing pop. You can even use a mouthwash with a whitening agent to keep your smile sparkling!”
6 Simple Things to Improve Your Oral Health
Step 1: Brush Your Teeth Properly
You’ve heard it a million times, but brushing your teeth twice daily is so important. Consistent brushing can help reduce plaque and bacteria buildup, freshen your breath, and prevent cavities and gum disease. When brushing, remember to use gentle, circular motions. Also, choosing the right toothpaste for your specific needs is important. To learn more, check out our recent blog, “How to Choose the Right Toothpaste for Your Teeth.”
Step 2: Floss Daily
Another simple step to improve your oral health is to floss daily. Flossing helps remove plaque and buildup that your toothbrush can’t always eliminate. It also helps keep your gum line clean! It’s important to floss gently, along the gum line. You also don’t have to stick to regular old dental floss. Many other convenient alternatives, like floss picks and water flossers, also get this job done.
Step 3: Rinse with Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwashes are another great step to add to your daily habits. Mouthwash helps reduce plaque buildup, freshens your breath, and prevents gum disease. If you have sensitive teeth, avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes. There are many mouthwash options if you have sensitive teeth or want to try another taste besides the classic mint.
Step 4: Maintain a Healthy Diet
When thinking about your oral health, it’s also important to remember to stick to a healthy diet. Sugary and acidic food and drinks can contribute to tooth decay. It’s important to consume these products in moderation. Also, you can incorporate foods that are friendly to your teeth, like dairy, leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, don’t forget to drink water throughout the day. Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
Step 5: Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Don’t keep pushing off your dentist appointment! One crucial step to improving your oral health is visiting your dentist regularly for cleanings. Professional cleanings and exams help keep your teeth fresh and allow your dentist to monitor your oral health. Regular visits can help detect issues like cavities and gum disease early, and allow your dentist to give you personalized advice.
Step 6: Avoid Harmful Habits
As we discussed earlier, your physical health and habits can negatively impact your oral health. It’s important to avoid harmful habits, such as smoking or excessive alcohol intake. Also, remember to protect your teeth! Use a mouthguard during sleep if you grind your teeth.
Conclusion to 6 Simple Steps to Do Right Now to Improve Your Oral Health
It’s important to maintain your oral health. Our oral health can have massive effects on our overall physical health and lead to problems in the future. Today, we talked about simple steps to improve your oral health, including brushing and flossing your teeth twice daily. Plus, rinsing with mouthwash is a healthy habit that has many benefits. Long-term steps include maintaining a healthy diet, visiting the dentist every six months, and avoiding harmful habits. Remember to start with small changes to help you stay consistent. Consistency is key when it comes to your oral health. To learn more, read our blog, “The Importance of Oral Health.”
If you need a new dentist or are due for a dental cleaning, look no further than Dalton Dental. With a team of experienced professionals dedicated to crafting perfect smiles, Dalton Dental ensures a comfortable dental experience. Contact us today to schedule your next dental exam.
Dalton Dental offers general, cosmetic, and periodontic dental services in South Tampa. We have over 20 years of experience transforming smiles and giving people unstoppable confidence. Learn more about us, our dental services, and take an office tour. Plus, check out the hundreds of 5-star reviews patients have posted and the galleries of smiles created by the best dentist in Tampa, Dalton Dental.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Hilary Dalton, DMD, MS
Dr. Hilary Dalton owns Dalton Dental, a general and cosmetic dental practice in Tampa, FL. She is board-certified in Periodontology & Dental Implant Surgery and in Procedural Medicine in Aesthetics.
Dr. Dalton also holds certifications in microsurgery, laser proficiency, Invisalign, master esthetic facial injector, PRP, and facial laser.
She graduated from Tufts University’s School of Dental Medicine in Boston with an award for Outstanding Leadership and Extraordinary Clinical Achievement.
To learn more about Dr. Hilary Dalton, visit our About page.