Let's Face It, Oral Health Is Important!

We have all been there. Running late for work, schedules to busy or even feeling to tired to care. Needless to say, we all know it's important to take care of something that is so essential to us. What are the best ways we can do this? Flossing and brushing are very much the ABC's of caring for your teeth but what else can be done?

Here's advice that might help.

1. Don't Let Time Pass You By. 

From a young age we are taught to brush our teeth. I remember I was told "little circles" when brushing my teeth. What I wasn't told was that changes over time. I remember I carried that technique into late high school before someone told me that that wasn't the best for adult teeth. I was then told to brush from my gum line down my teeth for the best results. Even the more elderly have their own challenges and techniques when it comes to taking care of their oral health. There can be many reasons for this, One of them being the amount of saliva we produce decreases over time and this can lead to serious issues such as tooth decay. Pay attention to the people around you. From grandparents to children, make sure they have the right information. Make sure YOU have the right information. If you don't, please seek it out. 

2. Nothing Is Sweeter Than A SMILE.

I'm so guilty for this. Sometimes my sweet tooth is too much and I grab a chocolate bar on my way out of the grocery store. It could also be that it's time for supper and I crack open a can of pop to have with my meal. This is common for many people. Sugar acts as a fuel and super charges the bacteria and acidity in your mouth. This causes more plaque to form that will eat away at your enamel and gums. I won't sugar coat this for you (sorry couldn't help myself). What we need to do is cut back on the sweet treats. It's OK to give in once in awhile as long as we properly take care of our teeth afterwards. 

Smile

3. Be Prepared.

Many dental professionals agree the best type of toothbrush to use is a soft-bristled brush. Once you notice bent bristles, it's time to replace the toothbrush. If you don't change your toothbrush it will become blunted instead of rounded and may injure the teeth and gums. A technique you can use is holding the brush at a 45-degree angle against the gums. 

4. Take That Step.

Smoking or chewing tobacco can be one of the hardest additions to kick. Everyone handles it differently. Someone can drop the habit just like that, while for others it can take a lot of support and time to wean off. Whatever the case may be, it's important to do so. The nicotine and tar can eat away at your gums and will create the best environment for bacteria and plaque to call home. It can also degrade the bone that supports your teeth leading to tooth loss (you would be lucky if all you get is yellow teeth.) Worse case scenario is a variety of cancers including oral cancer.

Stop Smoking

5. Don't Be Too Late For An Important Date!

It may not be a free $40 dinner at your favorite restaurant. None the less it's still very important you make a date to go see a dentist as often as twice a year. By paying your dentist a visit you can help catch problems early and save money in the long run. Things can become much more costly if they are left alone and I'm not just talking about money. Your health matters to!

 

Here are a few links to great products that would help you improve your oral health.