How you take care of your teeth and gums affects how well you feel overall. There is a connection between your overall health and your dental health. When you don’t take care of your oral health, you put yourself at an increased risk of developing conditions like heart disease, respiratory complications, and even dementia. Luckily, improving your bathroom routine does not necessarily warrant significant changes. Here are a few easy changes you can make to help you create oral care habits that last.
Invest in a Good Toothbrush
Apart from any physical limitation you may have, there is no need to buy the fanciest electric toothbrush on the market. But, if you’ve used a brush with a product that has stiff bristles, you may not realize that you are ruining your oral health. The harder the bristles, the higher the risk of enamel loss and even receding gums. Instead, try switching to a brush with soft bristles.
Remember to Floss
Although most people will tell their dentists that they floss daily, your dentist will be able, to tell the truth as soon as they examine your mouth. While flossing may not be fun, it is the only way to remove the food stuck between your teeth. The goal is to remove this gunk before it turns into plaque. So, get into the habit of flossing at least once a day.
Drink More Tap Water
We all know that as humans, we need to be drinking plenty of water each day. Not only to keep you hydrated but to help you avoid overeating. While it is not as popular, tap water is also beneficial to your teeth. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), fluoridating the community water supply can help reduce tooth decay by 25 percent for both kids and adults.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
Focus on eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains, chicken, and fish. When you can, try to get organic varieties of certain foods to protect yourself against pesticides. Cutting back on soda consumption can be a huge change for some people, limiting how much you drink can significantly reduce your risk for cavities. Even diet sodas are harmful since they are very acidic and can still damage teeth over time.
Making small changes to your day can help improve your dental health significantly over time. So, continue to brush twice a day and schedule twice-a-year appointments with your dentist at Foothill Dental Care in Livermore, and you have a lifetime of healthy smiles for you and your family.