Tips To Maintain Good Oral Health

Good oral health involves keeping the mouth and teeth clean and healthy. Maintaining good oral health is a top priority because of several reasons. While it may seem obvious, good oral health helps prevent other serious health problems. Gum disease has been linked to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke, and pregnant women with gum disease can give birth to underweight or premature babies. Patients also may be at a greater risk for diabetes, osteoporosis, and complications with pregnancy. Therefore, to have a good, aesthetic smile and to prevent the onset of several oral and overall health issues, the maintenance of good oral health is important. Here are a few tips that will help you maintain good oral health:

• Routine cleanings and exams

The American Dental Association recommends regular dental checkups twice per year. Visiting the dentist every six months for dental checkups and teeth cleanings is essential for maintaining good oral health. These visits allow your dental provider to monitor your oral health and catch any potential issues before they develop into an issue.

Regular dental visits also allow your provider to clean your teeth thoroughly and professionally. This cleans away plaque and tartar buildup, protecting your oral health. 

• Brushing and flossing

Brushing and flossing are the best ways to prevent or remove plaque from the surfaces of the teeth above the gum line. Plaque is the filmy substance that naturally forms on the teeth, but plaque that isn’t removed hardens into tartar.

The mouth is full of bacteria, and when tartar remains on the teeth, the bacteria can be exposed to sugars and other carbohydrates in the mouth, leading to cavities. When plaque and tartar accumulate along the gum line, it irritates the gums and leads to gingivitis. So, it is crucial to clean your teeth every day with proper brushing and flossing. 

• Quitting smoking

Smoking is harmful to your oral health in many ways. It affects your gums, teeth, and mouth. It can lead to bad breath, cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and mouth sores. Smoking causes an overgrowth of bacteria in your mouth and on your teeth. So, one of the best things you can do for your oral health is to quit smoking. 

• Avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption

Avoiding excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption can benefit your oral health. The sugar and acids in these beverages can erode your tooth enamel, putting you at risk for tooth decay and cavities. Basically, the fewer harmful items you consume, the better for your oral health.

• Eating a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet is important for maintaining good oral health, and this doesn’t just mean avoiding sugary and acidic foods. It’s important to also focus on filling your diet with foods that help promote a healthy mouth.

Some foods you may want to look for include:

• Dairy products - Yogurt, cheese, milk, etc. These foods help strengthen tooth enamel and aid in repairing tooth damage. They also contain calcium and vitamin D, which are important for keeping your bones strong.
• Fresh fruits and vegetables - These foods help clean your teeth as you eat them.
• Lean protein - Chicken, fish, and other lean meats help keep your gums healthy.

To learn more tips to improve our oral health, visit the ZM Dental office at 14502 N Dale Mabry Hwy #102, Tampa, FL 33618. You can also reach us at (813) 513-5045 and schedule an online appointment.