What is Oral Health?
Oral health refers to the absence of disorders and discomforts in the oral cavity. 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. A bad 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.