5 Tips for Better Oral Health

April is National Oral Health Month! To celebrate, we wanted to share a few tips on how to maintain or improve your oral health. As oral health is such an important part of your general health, it can seriously impact your well-being and quality of life. Here are our five tips to improve your oral health.

Oral health starts with a good cleaning routine

Chances are you already know that brushing and flossing are crucial to keeping your mouth and teeth clean. And, of course, flossing and brushing prevent cavities and other dental issues. According to the Canadian Dental Association, you should brush with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Do not forget to change your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to six months. Furthermore, you should wait between 20 and 30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth.

And don’t forget to floss every day. If you are unsure about the proper technique, ask your dentist or hygienist to demonstrate. You should also teach your children how to care for their teeth and gums. Learning the importance of oral health early on will help them maintain a good routine throughout their lives.

An apple a day: diet impacts your oral health

A healthy lifestyle, which includes eating right and exercising regularly, will have a positive impact on your health. But did you know that diet is especially important for your oral health as well? In fact, proper nutrition helps build strong teeth and gums. As such, you should aim to eat a well-balanced diet. This means avoiding foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. In terms of snack foods, try munching on healthier options such as nuts, low-fat cheeses, vegetables, and non-acidic fruits.

Be on the lookout for any abnormal changes in your mouth

Checking your mouth regularly is important. If you notice abnormalities, consult your dentist. For example, sore, puffy, shiny or sensitive gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, and ongoing bad breath may be signs of gum disease. Furthermore, open sores that won’t heal, numbness or tingling in the gums, white or red patches, and small lumps can be signs of oral cancer. Being aware of any changes or abnormalities in your mouth can help detect diseases sooner. And this in turn can drastically improve treatment outcomes.

Quit smoking or chewing tobacco

It is common knowledge that smoking and tobacco products are very bad for your health. This includes your oral health. In fact, smoking or chewing tobacco can cause oral cancer, gum disease and a variety of other cancers. Furthermore, smoking also stains your teeth and can ruin your smile!

Visit your dentist regularly

And last but certainly not least, visit your dentist regularly. Regular cleanings and exams are the best way to maintain good oral health. Also, regular visits to your dentist will help detect any problems or issues before they get worse. Early detection can be key to successfully treating illnesses and diseases of the mouth or gums.

To schedule your next dental appointment, contact the Clinique dentaire Fortin Poirier today. They will be happy to assist you with all your oral health care needs.