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5 Things About Oral Hygiene Everyone Needs to Know

Simple Life Hacks for Better Overall Health

By Janelle OuelletPublished 7 years ago 3 min read

Life is hectic and we don't always have enough time to brush and floss twice a day every day. In this post I will explain why practicing good oral hygiene is not only great for a healthy smile, but how oral hygiene effects your health in general.

As adults, the enamel around teeth and gums weaken for various reasons. For example, calcium deposits that naturally form to keep teeth and gums strong diminish as we age. As a result, plaque build -up around teeth and gums become more frequent which is one reason why practicing good oral hygiene is important, especially for adults. This will prevent bleeding gums and cavities which will be beneficial to over all health as well. Many of us are unaware poor oral health practices, can also lead to liver and kidney failure. The explanation for this is simple. When gingivitis occurs as a result of poor oral health, tooth decay and deposits transfer to other parts of the body as well. This means poor blood flow and oxygen throughout the entire body which can result in needing a kidney or liver transplant later on in life. This is why talking steps to maintain a cleaner mouth will help improve quality of life and will mean a longer life expectancy.

How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Using a good quality toothbrush is the first step to maintaining overall health. Rechargeable toothbrushes are the most recommend by dentists because as opposed to a manual toothbrush or battery operated toothbrush, rechargeable tooth brushes like Sonic or Oral B are not only great at removing surface stains, they clean those hard to reach places like in between teeth and teeth in the back and hard to reach places. This will prevent tooth decay and bleeding gums which can cause gingivitis. The only negative thing about these toothbrushes is they are very pricy. However, saving for one of these toothbrushes will be one of the best investments you will ever make.

Life is hectic, so why not brush while in the bath or shower? Brush while watching television? If you have kids, brush and floss with them. This a great way to teach them early on the importance of good oral hygiene. Children learn best by way of example which will serve them well throughout life.

Floss twice a day every day.

Flossing will help with cleaning those places in between the teeth that your toothbrush left behind. Flossing twice a day is crucial for preventing cavities and tooth decay which can lead to gingivitis. Another way to maintain a cleaner mouth and a healthier you. Not to mention fewer trips to the dentist.

Try to practice healthy lifestyle choices.

Things like smoking, red wine, and foods that have a lot of acidic components cam also lead to tooth decay and bleeding gums. If you smoke and drink red wine, why not try cutting back? Why not eat foods that have less acids? This is another great way to maintain good overall health.

Use a alcohol free mouthwash.

Switch to a mouthwash that does not contain alcohol. Alcohol weakens tooth enamel which will result in rapid tooth decay and cavities even though you are brushing twice a day. Switch to Crest mouthwash instead of Listerine. Listenine is great for killing bacteria in and around the mouth, due to its high alcohol content, however tooth decay will form a lot quicker. Rinse three times a week with a mouth wash that has a low alcohol content for a thorough clean.

Brush your tongue.

Did know that most of the bacteria in your mouth is on your tongue? This why brushing your tongue twice a day will help any bacteria from transferring onto teen and gums. Preventing tooth decay and cavities.

Brush, floss, and rinse for a healthier you and fewer visits to the dentist.

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About the Creator

Janelle Ouellet

Enjoys painting abstract art.

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