Oral Health Habits You Need To Be Doing

18 / 11 / 2018

Oral Health Habits You Need To Be Doing

These days, it’s fair to say we are more health-conscious than ever before. We know how important it is to eat well, maintain a sensible weight and exercise regularly. We understand the dangers of smoking and excess alcohol consumption. And – even in the UK – we know to protect ourselves from too much sun exposure. But how much do we know about oral health and hygiene? Are we really doing everything we can to avoid dental problems developing? Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are vital. But these should be complemented by a conscientious home care routine, in order to establish excellent oral health habits.

Clean your teeth

It might sound obvious, but clean teeth (and healthy gums) are the cornerstone of good oral health. We should all be brushing thoroughly, but gently, twice a day. But not everybody does. According to a YouGov survey in 2017, three in ten Brits (29%) only brush their teeth once a day. And a further one in fifty Brits (2%) said they didn’t brush their teeth at all on a typical day!

This is obviously very bad news for the nation’s oral health. Teeth that aren’t brushed enough will not produce a mouth that looks and smells healthy. It is really important to keep teeth clean and free from debris. Brushing at least twice a day – and flossing daily – are key preventative measures. These simple steps help to stop complications from developing in the first place. In particular, they greatly decrease the risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease. And prevention is always better than a painful problem or expensive cure!

Boost your brushing

To keep your teeth and mouth healthy, you need to brush with fluoride toothpaste twice a day for two minutes. This helps to stop plaque building up. Official NHS guidance states that manual and electric toothbrushes are equally good. However, many people find it easier to clean more thoroughly with an electric version.

What’s important is that you brush all the surfaces (inside, outside and chewing) of every tooth. And make sure you’re using a toothpaste with the right concentration of fluoride. This can prevent cavities and tooth decay. After brushing, spit out excess toothpaste, but don’t rinse straightway, as this will dilute the fluoride in your mouth. Lastly, don’t forget your tongue! Gently brush the surface to remove any lingering plaque and bacteria and freshen your breath.

Effective flossing

Daily flossing is another key component of excellent oral health. But that YouGov survey reveals that the vast majority of Brits don’t floss either. Only 31% of respondents said they cleaned between their teeth on a typical day. Yet NHS guidance states that flossing should form part of a daily oral health routine from the age of 12.

Flossing helps to dislodge food that’s become wedged between your teeth. It can also help to reduce gum disease and bad breath, by removing plaque that forms along the gum line. It’s important not to be too vigorous, or you’ll damage your gums. Flossing should be firm but gentle. If you find using dental floss difficult, try dental tape instead.

Some people do experience tender gums and/or bleeding when they first begin flossing. This should resolve itself as your gums become healthier. But if it persists, or you have any concerns, do contact your dentist as soon as possible. We will be able to give you advice and instruction on the best ways to clean between your teeth.

Say no to constant snacking

Day-long grazing is a very common, modern phenomenon. We lead busy lives and often don’t have time to sit down and eat proper meals. Instead, we snack constantly, usually on sugary treats such as biscuits and sweets. This is not great for our oral health, as it raises the risk of cavities. Every time we snack, bacteria reacts with leftover food to produce acid that attacks your tooth enamel. The solution? Try to eat three meals a day instead of grazing. If that’s really not possible, choose your snacks wisely. Raw/crunchy vegetables, breadsticks and cheese are all good options. Chewing sugar-free gum after eating can also help to minimise ‘acid attacks’ and protect your oral health.

Fizzy drinks can be just as damaging to your teeth as sugary snacks. Any sugar they contain causes decay, while their acidity can cause tooth erosion. It takes roughly one whole hour for tooth enamel to remineralise and recover after encountering sugar and acid. That’s even after just one sip! So switch your sugary soda for water. It won’t harm your teeth – and staying hydrated will enhance your general (as well as oral) health.

Don’t use your teeth as tools

Your teeth are for chewing food. Don’t use them to open things, tear things, or nibble your nails. These bad habits are not good for your oral health. They put you at risk of tooth cracks and chips, jaw damage and swallowing things you shouldn’t.

Attend your appointments

Last, but by no means least, visit your dentist regularly, as often as recommended. Maintenance check-ups are vital. Dentists often spot the early warning signs of a potential problem long before it gets serious. We can also offer guidance and advice, and recommend appropriate treatment solutions.

At the Lighthouse Dental Practice our team is led by Dental Surgeons Dr Tocca and Dr Griffin. They are ably supported by our qualified dental nurses and knowledgeable practice receptionist. For enquiries, or to make an appointment, please call our practice on 01473 257379. For more information on how to enhance your oral health, follow us on Twitter @LighthouseDent2

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