Oral Health

What is Oral Health?

Oral health refers to the absence of disorders and discomforts in your mouth. Oral health is a key element of your physical and psychological well-being and it can have a massive effect on your quality of life. Poor oral health can increase the risk of health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular or respiratory diseases. However, a lot of the risk factors that have been associated with poor oral health are actually behaviours that you can modify.

How can you take care of your oral health?

Toothpaste: use a toothpaste that contains Fluoride. This element fights germs and bacteria and protects your teeth.

Toothbrush: use a toothbrush that adapts to your needs. These can be soft, medium or hard bristled.

• Research shows that soft bristles can provide better cleaning results and less damage to the gums but ask your dentist what they recommend for you.
• Electric toothbrushes have shown to better reduce plaque buildup than manual toothbrushes.
• Replace your manual toothbrush or the head of your electric toothbrush every three months or sooner if you see damage or irregularities in the bristles.

Brushing: 

• ​​​Brush your teeth at least twice a day
• Brush your teeth thoroughly and for 2 minutes
• The toothbrush should fit your mouth at a 45-degree angle to your gums
• Move the toothbrush in short strokes, tooth wide, back and forth
• Clean the inside of the front teeth by tilting the toothbrush vertically; make strokes in an up and down motion.
• Brush your tongue

Flossing: use dental floss, tape or an interdental brush.

• These help reduce plaque
• They help maintain healthy gums
• They reduce inflammation.

Diet and lifestyle changes: pay attention to your diet and other aspects of your lifestyle.

• Limit the amount of sugar and acidic food
• Eat crunchy foods, especially fruits and vegetables
• Drink water
• Give up smoking
• Reduce your alcohol consumption

Visit an oral health professional: visit your dentist at least twice per year.