5 Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Mouth

1. Regular visits

According to the Canadian Dental Association, 75% of Canadians go to the dentist annually. However, it is recommended to visit the dentist twice a year to keep your teeth and mouth healthy and strong. Regular cleanings and checkups help prevent serious gum and teeth diseases. Your dentist will be able to catch anything before it gets too serious, making it easier to treat.

2. Diet

Reducing sugar intake is important to maintaining a healthy mouth. Sugar breaks down into acid form on your teeth which breaks down the enamel or first layer of the tooth, leading to a cavity on the tooth. When the enamel is weak, your teeth are more likely to break. A balanced diet is crucial to your teeth. Nutrients that promote strong bones, healthy gums, and fatty acids reduce gum disease and should be a part of your daily diet.

3. Stop Smoking

Smoking discolors your teeth and nicotine and tar in cigarettes damage your gums as well. Your mouth becomes dry and breeding grounds for bacteria and infections. This bacteria makes your mouth more susceptible to gum disease and oral cancer which can affect your lips, gums, teeth, and tongue.

4. Proper Brushing Technique

Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards the gum line. This allows the bristles to clean under the gum line and between the teeth near the root. Use gentle, circular motions to brush. Brushing aggressively can actually damage your teeth and erode your gum line. Always use a soft toothbrush and replace it often, as soon as the bristles bend a bit, or after a cold or the flu.  At a minimum every 3-6 months.

5. Floss

Flossing promotes healthier teeth and gums. However, it is like brushing. There is a proper technique and doing it the wrong way can damage your gum line. Use about 12-inches of floss and wrap it around your index fingers. Have about 2-3 inches of floss between your fingers. It’s important to use fresh floss between each tooth so you don’t spread food particles. Slide the floss against the tooth to break up food particles and break up plaque without harming the gum line.