To help you, we have some tips for keeping your teeth and gums in top shape:
Choose the right toothbrush. A toothbrush with a small head will give you better access to your back teeth and soft bristles are gentler on your gums. Change your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles start to fray.
Brush at least twice a day. Ideally, this should be first thing in the morning and right before bed. If you want to optimise your oral health, you can add an extra brushing session in between, so this might mean brushing after every meal.
Brush thoroughly. Tooth brushing should take between two and three minutes. Remember to scrub your tongue too, since it is a haven for bacteria.
Don't forget to floss. It is recommended thatyou floss at least once a day as this helps to remove the plaque and food that's beyond your toothbrush's reach.
Limit your intake of acidic drinks. Cold drinks, fruit juices and cordials can soften teeth and dissolve the minerals in tooth enamel, causing holes. In severe cases, teeth can be 'eaten' right down to the gum!
Stop smoking. Smoking has been linked to the onset of gum disease and, since it weakens your immune system, it also makes it harder to fight off a gum infection. Plus, smoking makes it more difficult for your gums to heal once they've been damaged.
See your dentist regularly. Not only will they be able to pick up any early signs and symptoms of gum disease and tooth decay, but also keep your teeth free from any plaque you might have missed when brushing or flossing. With EssentialMED, you can get unlimited managed dentist visits and procedures, including pain control, cleaning, fillings and extractions. To find one in your area, click here to download our list of network dentists.
Now go out and show off your shiny, healthy smile!
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/oral-health
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/periodontal-gum-disease.html
