Your London Invisalign® Provider
By following these oral health tips, you can maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.
1. Brush twice a day, for at least 2 minutes.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and before bed, for two to four minutes each time for good oral hygiene. Begin by sweeping with your brush at a 45-degree angle. Brush your upper teeth in a downward sweeping motion and your lower teeth in an upward sweeping motion. On chewing surfaces, you should only brush back and forth.
2. Floss every night.
Flossing your teeth before brushing them every night not only removes debris but also reduces the risk of tooth decay. It also aids in the maintenance of healthy gums. Use a piece of floss that is up to 18 inches long so that you can floss every few teeth with a fresh section of floss. Keep in mind that the floss should be rubbed against the teeth in a forward or backward 'C' shape, with the floss wrapping around each tooth.
3. Rinse with mouthwash daily.
Including mouthwash in your oral hygiene routine can aid in the elimination of germs that can accumulate in your mouth. Because mouthwash can reach places that toothbrushes and floss can't, it can aid in the removal of debris that can irritate the gum line and cause gum disease.
4. Brush or scrape your tongue daily.
Bacteria can remain on the tongue even after brushing your teeth. Brushing or scraping your tongue as part of your daily routine can help remove this bacteria while also freshening your breath. Brush your teeth with one toothbrush and scrape your tongue with a different toothbrush.
5. Visit the dentist regularly.
Visit the dentist, at least twice a year, for a dental examination and cleaning. Dentists and hygienists have tools and techniques to clean your teeth far more thoroughly than you can at home. Regular exams also mean your dentist can find any issues that are developing sooner and offer treatment options to prevent them from getting worse.
6. Don’t delay dental treatments.
Many people avoid dental treatment because they are afraid of the cost, while others avoid treatment because they believe it will be too expensive. In comparison to the extensive care required for a dental crown or implant, preventive check-ups and treatments are inexpensive. Avoiding necessary treatments can harm your dental hygiene and end up costing you more in the long run.
7. Make healthy food choices and minimize sugar.
Your teeth, like the rest of your body, are affected by the food you eat. So make sure to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and limit your sugar intake to avoid cavities. Calcium and Vitamin D are essential for maintaining gum and tooth health. Supplements are available, but it is preferable to consume milk, fortified orange juice, yogurt, broccoli, cheese, and other dairy products. Vitamin B complex also helps to keep gums and teeth healthy by preventing them from cracking and bleeding.
8. Limit pop, coffee, and alcohol.
Additives in beverages, such as corn syrup and food dye, can cause white teeth to appear dull and discoloured. Drinks like milk, which helps to strengthen teeth and build stronger enamel, and water, which hydrates your body, are the best choices.
9. Wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth.
If you play sports or other contact activities, it is recommended to wear a mouth guard to protect your teeth and gums from impact or injury. Most dental offices offer custom-made mouth guards for patients to comfortably fit their smiles and keep their teeth safe from damage.
10. Avoid habits that are harmful to your teeth.
Avoid tobacco and other teeth-damaging substances, and try to break bad habits like biting your nails or opening bottle caps with your teeth. Consult a dentist if you have a habit of sucking your thumb, biting your lips, thrusting your tongue, or clenching your teeth.
