Maintaining oral health is an indispensable part of leading a healthy lifestyle. Having strong teeth, healthy gums and a clean tongue are signs of good health and important aspects of oral hygiene.
Oral health refers to the health of the teeth, gums, and the entire oral-facial system that allows us to smile, speak, and chew. Some of the most common diseases that impact our oral health include cavities (tooth decay), gum (periodontal) disease, and oral cancer.
Poor Oral Health
More than 40% of adults report having felt pain in their mouth within the last year, and more than 80% of people will have had at least one cavity by age 34.Oral conditions are frequently considered separate from other chronic conditions, but these are actually inter-related
Poor oral health is associated with other chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Oral disease also is associated with risk behaviors such as using tobacco and consuming sugary foods and beverages.
Public health strategies such as community water fluoridation and school sealant programs are safe and effective interventions proven to prevent cavities and save money.
Cavities (Tooth Decay)
Cavities are caused by a breakdown of the tooth enamel by acids produced by bacteria located in plaque that collects on teeth, especially along the gum line and in the crevices on the chewing surfaces of the teeth.
Eating and drinking foods high in carbohydrates cause this bacteria to produce the acids that can cause the outer coating of the tooth (enamel) or root surface to break down (demineralize).
Oral health essentials: 5 things you should not miss
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Flossing your teeth is super important!
If you think brushing your teeth twice a day is enough, well it is not. You must add flossing to your oral health routine
BRUSH YOUR TEETH AT NIGHT
Do not go to bed without brushing your teeth. Doing so not only prevents plaque build-up but also helps clear out bacteria from your mouth. It also helps you deal with bad breath.
DO NOT FORGET TO CLEAN YOUR TONGUE
While brushing your teeth, make sure you clean your tongue as well. You can use a tongue scraper to do the same. If you suffer from bad breath, you should clean your tongue every day.
CHANGE TOOTHBRUSH EVERY 3 MONTHS
It is the little things that have a big impact on your health. One such example is how long you continue to use a toothbrush. One must change their toothbrush every 3 months.
PRACTISE OIL PULLING
It is an ancient technique wherein you swirl almost a tablespoon of oil in your mouth in the morning on an empty stomach and rinse it after 5-10 minutes.
Oil pulling is good for the proper functioning of salivary glands. It strengthens the teeth, keeps bad breath at bay, helps with mouth ulcers and also plays a key role in the overall digestion process.
Furthermore, you should avoid having acidic food items and reduce the intake of coffee. You should also opt for a biannual checkup with a dentist to ensure you are not developing any issues related to oral health.
