Did
you smile today? Happiness aside, many people today don't feel comfortable
smiling because of the state of their dental health.
Nearly
50% of people 30 and up in the United States have some form of gum
disease. The majority of the population has also had at least one cavity.
Knowing
the factors that contribute to healthy teeth and healthy gums will help you
more than you know. We've got the answers that you're looking for.
The
points in this guide will assist you if you're trying to do what's best for
healthy teeth and gums.
1. Change the Way That You Eat and Drink
A
big part of preventing gum disease boils down to the way that you eat and
drink.
Chances
are high that you're at risk for oral health diseases if you're constantly
taking in sugary foods and drinks. There's nothing wrong with a treat here and
there, but there's so much added sugar in the foods today that you're playing
with fire.
Sugar
aside, make sure that you eat a balanced diet that is nutrient-dense and filled
with healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. This allows your body to do
what it does best, which will bode well for your dental health.
2. Make Brushing and Flossing Mandatory
Preventing
cavities always starts with good old-fashioned brushing and flossing.
Break
out the toothbrush every morning and night, and make sure that you're also
flossing once a day. Use a toothpaste that has fluoride and that is American
Dental Association (ADA) approved.
Don't
forget the tongue, and carefully and gently get all of the nooks and crannies
of your mouth.
3. Visit a Quality Dental Professional
A
dentist is a necessity if you're interested in caring for your teeth. Find
the assistance of a professional that can look after all your needs and give
you an appointment no less than once per year.
They
will look after your dental hygiene and can assist you with cosmetic
dentistry and orthodontics.
What do cavities look
like? How does tartar build-up play a
role?
A
dentist will have the answers to these questions and others. Going to the
dentist also comes with a measure of fear and anxiety for some people, your
dentist's professionalism, bedside manner, and care will always play a
role.
4. Stay Hydrated on a Daily Basis
Hydration
also can help you out with your teeth and gums.
Taking
the time to properly hydrate will help your health and wellness more than you know.
These benefits trickle down to your dental health as well.
Drinking
water keeps your mouth clean and moisturized, and will also improve blood flow
that leads to healthy gums.
5. Ditch Smoking and Other Bad Habits
Finally,
it's important that you avoid habits that hurt your oral health. Tobacco smoke
is chief among these since it's a risk factor for gum disease and heart
issues.
Smoking
will also stain your teeth and cause tooth decay.
Strive to Have Healthy Teeth and Gums
The
tips above will be useful when you want healthy teeth and gums. You'll get your
life back on track and will feel happy with your smile when you start with
these guidelines.
Check
out our other articles when you'd like to get the best from your oral
healthcare and other aspects of wellness.