Oral health is more important than you might realize. It is a window to your overall health
Your oral health can offer clues about your overall health —and also the problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body as there is an intimate connection between oral health and overall health.
A daily oral hygiene regimen is the most essential day to day activity to lead an healthy and tidy life. The main goal of an oral hygiene regimen should be removing the plaque that causes tooth decay and gum diseases.
Focusing on your dental health will not only produce a dazzling smile, but has some added benefits as well. Since oral health is linked to overall health, good oral hygiene can improve your well-being. When your oral health is neglected, bacteria multiply and wreak havoc on your mouth.
Brushing
Remember, a great rule is to brush longer, not harder. You should brush for at least two minutes to remove as much dental plaque as possible. Harder brushing won’t actually get teeth cleaner — it can irritate the tissues in your mouth and actually cause gum damage and also can cause wearing of enamel!
For proper brushing techniques, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gums. Brush in a back-and-forth motion, making sure to reach every surface of each tooth. For the front teeth, brush in “up and down motion” and for back teeth brush in a “circular motion”.
Brush the inner surface of the upper and lower front teeth with tip of the brush. Also brush the chewing surfaces.
And don’t forget the tongue — brushing the tongue will further remove the bacteria that causes bad breath!
Flossing
No matter how well you brush, there are some areas you just won’t be able to reach with a toothbrush. Flossing removes dental plaque that’s hiding in between teeth.
Flossing is recommended atleast once a day.
Start by holding the floss securely with each hand, and ease the floss between teeth. Gently rub the floss up and down, and curve it towards each tooth to cover more surface area. Once you reach the top, slide it under your gum line to remove plaque from beneath the gums. And be sure to use a fresh section of floss for each tooth.
Mouthwash
Antibacterial mouthwashes can remove the bacteria that causes dental plaque. This helps in preventing the first stage of gum disease.
Diet
Healthy eating habits are an equally important part of your oral hygiene regimen. Since sugars and carbohydrates promote tooth decay, the more you eat, the better chances you have of ruining your teeth! Instead, focus on protecting your oral health by eating nutritional foods.
Visit to a dentist
When it comes to optimal oral hygiene care, remember you have to check up with your dentist twice a year at least as a dentist may help you to improve in your regular oral hygiene regimen and show you the areas that need improvement in your oral hygiene routine.
A professional dental cleaning also may require to remove the dental tartar. They are hard enough and can be removed only by professional cleaning.
