ORAL HEALTH IS THE KEY TO PREVENTION.
If your eyes are the window to your soul, then your mouth is the window to your overall health. Not only will good oral health prevent bad breath and tooth and gum decay, but it will also keep you healthy. More and more studies are showing that your oral health affects your overall health. Conversely, oral health also reflects your overall health. For example, children with Celiac disease can experience more cavities and dental enamel defects.
You are probably wondering what the connection is between the two. Quite simply, your mouth, like the rest of the body is filled with bacteria. Good oral hygiene ensures these bacteria remain harmless, but without it, you are prone to some severe health conditions including heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes.
When it comes to your teeth and gums, prevention is definitely a much better option, which is why you should encourage your whole family to adopt good oral health habits from the get-go.
Want to know what those habits are? Carry on reading.
1. ESTABLISH A REGULAR DENTAL HYGIENE ROUTINE.
Establishing a regular routine that includes brushing and flossing is the first step to keeping your family’s teeth and gums healthy. We know that this seems like a tedious task, especially for younger children, which is why you might want to add a few fun elements. For example, get them a toothbrush that has their favorite character on it. Or one that plays a tune to keep them brushing for the recommended amount of time. Oh, and don’t forget the fun flavored toothpaste.
2. REGULAR FLOSSING IS A MUST.
It is important that you floss your pearly whites at least once a day. Brushing is good, but there are certain spots a toothbrush can’t reach. Regular flossing gets rid of the pesky little particles that get stuck in between your teeth. A good oral health routine is incomplete without flossing. It is important to encourage your children to floss as soon as they are old enough.
3. GOOD EATING EQUALS GOOD ORAL HEALTH.
Diet plays a major role when it comes to oral health, and an unhealthy one will definitely have a negative impact on your family’s teeth and gums. Sweets, fruit juices, and sugary sodas can result in cavities and ultimately tooth decay. Although we know it is easier said than done, it is best to cut down or avoid these sugary goodies to maintain a healthy smile. If the temptation is too much, especially if you have a sweet tooth, then it is a good idea to brush your teeth immediately afterward.
On the flipside, including food and drinks that are rich in calcium will strengthen your teeth. These include unsweetened yogurt, milk, and some veggies.
4. MAKE SURE YOU ARE USING THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB.
To get the job done well, we suggest you use the right tools. An electric toothbrush, for example, can get rid of plaque better than a traditional toothbrush. And using toothpaste with fluoride will strengthen the enamel on your teeth. The right mouthwash will not only keep your breath fresh, but it will also prevent cavities and reduce plaque buildup. Your dentist might also suggest a tongue brush. This is a great tool to remove any bacteria on your tongue.
5. CHOOSE A DENTIST THAT LOOKS AFTER THE ENTIRE FAMILY.
Choosing a dentist that can look after your whole family’s teeth is key. Not only will you be able to book the entire family’s appointments at one time, but it will also ensure no one misses out on their checkups. A family-friendly dentist will be able to provide all the care you need, whether it’s sealants for the little ones, aligners for the older kids, bridges or caps for you, and even dentures for grandma.
It is also vital that the whole family likes and trusts the dentist you decide on. Â Which is why we offer every possible service from regular checkups and cleaning, to teeth whitening and even cancer screenings.
Book your appointment today. Our family can’t wait to meet yours.
