World Oral Health Day: Why Teeth Care is Essential

You may think brushing and flossing every day is all you need to do as a part of teeth care. But the truth is, good oral hygiene includes taking care of your entire mouth and it is linked to your overall health. World Oral Health Day is observed on March 20, as an initiative of FDI World Dental Federation. It aims to spread awareness about the importance of maintaining oral hygiene. Good oral health can help you live a longer, healthier life. 

Like every year, there’s a theme for World Oral Health Day. For 2021-23, it is “Be Proud of Your Mouth”. As oral diseases are becoming a major health concern for people around the world, it is the need of the hour to make people aware of how healthy teeth and mouth will not only boost their self-confidence but also prevent any other serious health issues which may have life-long implications. 

Tips to Ensure Better Oral Hygiene

Teeth are important, they help us break down and chew food for better digestion, maintain the shape of our face, and speak properly. Definitely, we all want that good-looking smile. This is why, let us focus on teeth care and have a look at some of the best tips to ensure a good, healthy set of teeth.

1. Brush Right and Twice

To begin with, brushing your teeth twice a day is extremely beneficial. Brushing in the morning will ensure you have a good breath throughout the day. Also, brushing your teeth before bed is a must, as it does more than just giving you a good breath. It helps get rid of the plaque and germs that build up in your teeth throughout the day. 

Brushing your teeth the right way is equally important as brushing twice a day. Make sure you always use a soft-bristled toothbrush, brush for at least 2 minutes each time, never brush abrasively, and replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if needed. 

2. Use a Fluoride Toothpaste

Dentists suggest that fluoride is great for defense against tooth decay. It acts as a protective barrier for your teeth and fights germs effectively.

3. Flossing Should not be Skipped

Flossing reduces plaque. It is the best way to stimulate gums and helps lower inflammation that may occur. Notably, good dental health cannot be achieved without flossing. While some may find it a little difficult, with the right tools, you can floss your teeth easily. 

4. Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash reduces the acid in your mouth. While brushing is recommended, it may not always be able to successfully clean the areas in and around the teeth that the bristles fail to reach. Using a mouthwash will remineralize the teeth. You can opt for an antibacterial mouthwash and it is extremely convenient for kids to use too.

5. Teeth Whitening

You must know a thing or two about teeth whitening. You may notice tooth discolouration and stains over time and it can happen due to various reasons. While there are several products for tooth whitening, such as whitening gels and strips, you must always consult a dentist and know the root cause. 

6. Drink Lots of Water

Drinking enough water after every meal plays an important role in maintaining oral hygiene. Foods can leave residue in your mouth and around teeth, especially sticky and acidic food. Drinking water will help wash out some of them.

7. Eat Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

Eating fresh, crunchy fruits is not only good for your health but it is great for your teeth too. Apples, carrots, and celery are some of the foods to include in your diet as they help clean plaque from teeth and freshen up breath. They contain lots of antioxidants that prevent cell damage of gums and bacterial infection.

8. Limit Consuming Sugary and Acidic Food

Say no to sugary and acidic foods if you want healthy teeth. Excess consumption of these increases your risk of cavities. 

9. Quit Smoking

Smokers have more teeth and gum problems. Smoking causes a lack of oxygen in your bloodstream and is really bad for your gums. People who smoke are more prone to have dental plaque and their problems escalate in no time.

10. Regularly Visit Your Dentist

You may be taking utmost care of your teeth but it is important to visit the dentist at least twice a year. There are a lot of silent dental problems (no symptoms) and the diseases can grow and worsen without your knowledge. A dentist will be able to examine you well and treat a problem before it causes trouble.

Conclusion

Healthy teeth may be the reason for your good cardiovascular health. Yes, that is how important your teeth are. A bright and healthy smile is not just what you want, it is what you need. Let us all, on a global scale, raise awareness and pledge to improve oral and dental health this World Oral Health Day.