How Can You Maintain Your Oral Health At Home?

Oral health is about more than just taking care of your teeth; it’s about taking care of your whole body, too. Poor oral health can manifest itself in many ways. Both adults and children can experience complications from poor oral habits. For example, you might be experiencing the following:

• Unhealthy teeth
• Bad breath
• Gum disease
• Oral cancers
• Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

You can maintain good oral hygiene at home by following the tips below:

Learning Proper Brushing and Flossing Techniques

A majority of dental issues can be treated at home. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every day can help prevent tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues to an extent.

Using Mouthwash or Oral Rinse

When you brush your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash or oral rinse after will help to rinse away any debris or leftover food in your mouth. Doing so will also freshen up your breath. Mouthwashes can also help strengthen tooth enamel, prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and reduce the risk of plaque.

Mouthwashes are typically available with a mint flavor or come in a variety of flavors, such as cinnamon or fruit. Keep in mind, however, that mouthwash should not be swallowed and should only spit out.

Avoiding Tobacco Products

Cigarettes and other tobacco products can seriously damage the health of your smile. They contain over 60 different chemicals and compounds, many of which are highly toxic. These chemicals can penetrate the soft tissues of your mouth, leading to the development of serious oral health issues. Over time, tobacco use can increase your risk of developing oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay.

Reducing Your Sugar Intake

Reducing your sugar intake is one of the easiest ways to promote good oral health. However, many people don’t realize how much sugar is in foods. Cutting back on sugar is important because it causes tooth decay and gum disease, which are expensive to treat.

Visiting Your Dentist Regularly 

When you work with a dentist in Oakland, CA, you will be able to have your teeth cleaned by a professional. We will remove plaque and tartar buildup around your teeth, allowing you to prevent cavities and gum disease. Additionally, your dentist will be able to examine the inside of your mouth for signs of oral cancer.

To learn more about best practices for oral health, call Bay Area Dental at (510) 350-8187 or visit our dental office at 3300 Webster Street, #907, Oakland, CA 94609. Book your appointment with our dentist in Oakland, CA, to achieve the smile you have always wished for.