January is almost finished, have you been keeping your resolutions? Many people across the world vow on New Years Day to make the coming year healthier than the last. Some want to lose weight, others to stop smoking. How many people wanted to make 2010 a healthy year for their teeth? Good oral hygiene is very important to our health, and yet many people overlook the importance of a healthy mouth. Our smiles are shown hundreds, maybe even thousands of times a day. When we are happy, laugh, hear a joke, or greet someone our smiles are on display. Yet, many Americans don’t keep their smiles as healthy as they should. Even if you have not stuck with your New Year’s resolutions, strive to start new tomorrow. Making small steps to good oral health is all it takes. Here are 3 easy steps to get you on the path of a happy, healthy smile.
1. Brush twice a day and floss at least once a day
If you don’t floss you are missing more than a third of your tooth surface. Flossing is the area where many Americans slack off, it is time consuming and we are a rushed society. This should not be an excuse, flossing helps to remove the plaque between the teeth and gum-line where periodontal disease often begins.
Brushing should last between 2-3 minutes. Using a soft-bristle brush with fluoride toothpaste will help to remove the plaque and bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease.
2. See your dentist regularly
Regular checkups are important for preventing and detecting dental issues early. According to the ADHA, 75% of Americans have gum disease, although some of it is still in the early stages. It is recommended that dental patients visit the dentist twice a year, and yet over half of American adults don’t. When oral diseases go unnoticed and untreated, they may lead to serious problems in the future. It is better to be proactive, than reactive.
3. Consume a well balanced diet
Limiting junk food, sugary sodas, and consuming more nutrient rich foods is not only good for your body but also for your oral health. Sugar feeds cavity producing bacteria in your mouth. When the bacteria is not cleared during regular brushing, cavities begin to form. Eating foods that are fiber-rich can actually reverse some tooth decay and strengthen your teeth.
