Although the expression “health is wealth” sounds a little cliche, it is entirely accurate. In life, we work extremely hard to provide for ourselves and perhaps others, but how can we enjoy our accomplishments when our health is declining? When we think of good health, we often only fixate on our body and fail to recognise the importance of our teeth and gums. Not only does your mouth share a direct connection with the health of your heart, but it also helps you speak, chew, and carry out other daily functions.
Practising good oral hygiene can help to:
- Prevent artery and heart disease
- Improve the condition of your teeth
- Fight against cavities
- Combat bad breath
- Eliminate tooth stains and discolouration
So, where should you begin on your journey to better oral hygiene? Well, we’ve created a list of the top four habits you need to incorporate into your daily dental routine.
Brush
This seems like a more obvious habit, but do you know many people sleep without brushing their teeth? When it comes to cleaning your teeth, you should be putting your toothbrush to work in the AM and PM. If the benefits of brushing are still unclear to you, simply put, brushing removes plaque and bacteria in your mouth to prevent cavities and other ailments.
Gargle
When we mention gargling, we’re not just referring to swishing water in your mouth, although that is important too. You should add antiseptic mouthwash into your oral hygiene routine to reach the crevices in your mouth that your toothbrush and floss can’t target. Be sure to rinse at least twice per day to maintain maximum dental health.
Clean Your Tongue
While performing your usual oral hygiene routine, don’t forget to clean your tongue. This is one part of our mouth that we often neglect. The tongue is filled with plaque and bacteria which is responsible for causing your breath to smell funky… Using a tongue scraper is a simple yet effective way to eliminate this unwanted buildup.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
What toothpaste do you currently use? If it’s not fluoridated, you’ll want to pick up a new tube the next time you’re purchasing groceries at the supermarket. Fluoride toothpaste is essential, as it strengthens your enamel and prevents plaque buildup, thus keeping your teeth bright and healthy.
Also, remember to visit your dentist in La Crête for biannual dental cleanings and check-ups. Your dentist is equipped to detect oral issues early on and provide the necessary treatment to restore your oral health.