8 Essential Tips for Healthy Teeth and Gums

Many of us forget that oral health is a complex and nuanced thing. Staying up on your oral health involves more than just brushing twice a day. 

We’re going to explore some of the things that you should do to ensure that you keep healthy teeth and gums. Hopefully, the ideas below can give. a little structure to your oral routine and set you up for lasting health by visiting a good dental doctor. 

Let’s get started. 

1. Brush Intentionally

How many of us just brush as a mindless chore? You motivated yourself to get up and put toothpaste on the brush and put it in your mouth, so the battle is already won. Right?

In fact, brushing requires that you’re scrubbing with a purpose. Think about getting to the base of your gums, scrubbing surfaces well, and covering all the external surfaces of your teeth. 

2. Flossing Is Not Optional

We tend to think of flossing as something that’s not too big of a deal. While the hue of your teeth might be more impacted by brushing, your actual oral health is more tied to flossing. 

Flossing is an effort to remove dangerous bacteria from taking root between your teeth. From there, it seeps down into your gums and beyond. Flossing isn’t hard, it’s a lifesaver, and it only takes a few minutes of your day. 

3. Change Your Brush

Every month or two, do yourself a favor and change your brush head. Generally, the due date for this is when your bristles get stiff and firm. 

Doing this will improve the quality of your brushing routine. 

4. Avoid Sticky Candy

The real culprit behind tooth damage tends to be those sticky, sour, chewy candies. Things that cling to your teeth are those that get between your teeth and stick around. 

They’re sugary, and the bacteria in your mouth turn that sugar into plaque. Sticky, sugary bacteria is the last thing you want in there.

5. Eat Balanced Foods

Your diet plays a big role in bone health, and a poor diet might impair the health of your teeth. If you’re eating a balanced diet of mostly natural foods, you’ll be in a much better position to keep good oral health. 

There are a lot of other benefits to a balanced diet, too. 

6. Use Mouthwash at Night

Mouthwash serves as a coating of anti-bacterial protection throughout the night. Once you wash, don’t rinse your mouth out with water. Let the mouthwash sit and do its job while you sleep. 

7. Cut Smoking and Chewing

Cigarettes and chewing tobacco damage the gums and teeth in numerous ways. You’re at a higher risk for oral cancer, and the gums are generally in a weaker position. 

8. Get Regular Cleanings

Going to the dentist is the best thing you can do to manage your oral health. Visit your dentist on a regular basis, and make sure to keep coming back for regular checkups. 

They can keep you in the loop on where your oral routine might need some work. 

Looking for Healthy Teeth and Gums?

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums can be a challenge. There’s a lot to learn if you want lasting oral health. We’re here to help, though. 

Explore our site for more ideas on caring for gums, the benefits of flossing, and general information on how to have healthy teeth.