Oral Hygiene 101: Simple Steps to a Perfect Smile

Delicious but deadly, sugar is a double-edged sword when it comes to our nutrition, dental health, and oral hygiene. On the one hand we need sugar (carbs, specifically) to fuel our body. On the other, too much sugar can result in a dozen health problems that may not be so easily reversible. But other than obesity, diabetes and inflammation, sugar is also responsible for damaging our pearly whites. Before going into some tips on how to maintain your oral hygiene, let's learn a little bit about why sugar is so dangerous for our oral health. Why Sugar Bad Is for Your Teeth and Oral Hygiene When it comes to oral health, sugar and teeth are sworn enemies. Not only can sugar cause tooth decay and cavities, but also bad breath. Here's why sugar has such a huge impact over the health of our teeth. Sugar Feeds Harmful Bacteria It all comes down to the bacteria that lives inside our mouths. When we eat sweet foods and drinks, we feed our oral bacteria. This means the bacteria themselves aren’t the problem. It’s the acid that they excrete as a by-product of their digestive waste that’s responsible. In large enough quantities, this acid is strong enough to dissolve the protective coating on our teeth (called enamel). This makes them more vulnerable to decay. Sticky and sugary foods, such as candies and sodas, are especially harmful. This is because the sugar content in them tend to linger on and around our teeth much longer than other food products. The longer sugar stays on your teeth, the greater the damage they create. Sugar Creates an Acidic Environment But that’s not the only way sugar can disrupt our oral health. Sugary drinks and foods lowers the pH level in your mouth. This creates an even more acidic environment that is more conducive to the growth of harmful bacteria. Our oral bacteria then produces even more acid, which further erodes our health teeth. While a diet rich in sugar can be bad for your teeth, it’s important not to neglect your oral hygiene. Doing so can lead to a host of dental problems. This includes but is not limited to tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, etc. Therefore, it's crucial to have a routine that goes beyond simply brushing your teeth twice a day. Here are some tips to perfect your oral hygiene routine and keep your teeth healthy and strong. Perfect Your Oral Hygiene Routine with These Tips Brush Your Teeth Properly Brushing your teeth is the cornerstone of good oral hygiene. However, it's not just about brushing twice a day. How you go about doing so is also a factor. First, be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Then, place the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and brush in circular motions for two minutes. Lastly, don't forget to brush your tongue to remove any bacteria and freshen your breath. Floss Daily Did you know flossing may be what makes or breaks your oral health? Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can't reach. These areas are also where bacteria love to linger. Hence, it's essential to floss at least once a day to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. If you find traditional flossing difficult, you can opt for interdental brushes, floss picks, or water flossers. Rinse with Mouthwash Mouthwash can be a much-needed insurance for your dental health. They have the added benefit of killing any leftover bacteria that you may have missed while brushing or flossing. But take note: mouthwash is not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Instead, use mouthwash as a second line of defence. A mouthwash with fluoride can strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. After brushing and flossing, rinse as directed on the product. Then, don't eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after rinsing. Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks As mentioned, sugary foods and beverages are often one of the main perpetrators of tooth disease. When the bacteria in your mouth gets a taste of sugar, they release harmful acidic waste that eats away at your tooth enamel. So, limit your intake of sugary foods. Go for whole foods with complex carbs such as those in fruits and vegetables instead. Visit Your Dentist Regularly Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining health teeth and good oral health. Your dentist can detect and treat any dental problems before they become much worse. Remember to schedule dental cleanings at least once every six months. Your dentists may want to remove any plaque and tartar that’s been building up. This is important for preventing gum disease. Protect Your Pearly Whites In conclusion, perfecting your oral hygiene routine is essential for maintaining good, healthy teeth well into your golden years. But remember, it's not just about brushing your teeth twice a day. You must also remind yourself to floss, rinse with mouthwash, limit sugary foods and drinks, and visit your dentist regularly. Follow these tips, and you'll have perfect pearly whites for years and years to come! Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner. For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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