Let’s face it: in this day and age, we’re all busy. Between our jobs, families, passions, hobbies and more, it’s hard to keep track of everything we’re responsible for, and even harder to make time to take care of ourselves properly, too. While self care can often take the back burner in our day-to-day, maintaining proper oral health care is imperative to keeping our overall health in check, as poor oral health can lead to an array of harmful conditions, including heart issues.
Amidst all the chaos, dedicating time to our oral-health routine usually falls behind on our list of to-dos, but these top cosmetic dentists are here to walk us through what oral health is, show us easy ways to get it done, and provide a few products that will help us out along the way.
What Are the Basics of Oral Health?
The age old question indeed. While we all know that brushing and flossing are important, many of us don’t have a solid grasp on exactly what needs to be done to improve oral health above just the bare minimum. According to Houston cosmetic dentist Guy Lewis, DDS, good oral health starts with brushing, flossing and mouth wash, but it’s a bit more specific than just that. “Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally after meals,” Dr. Lewis begins. “Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush and make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the back molars and along the gum line. Additionally, replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.”
“Floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line,” Dr. Lewis continues, “use dental floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers to clean between teeth effectively.” Finally, Dr. Lewis recommends patients “consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce plaque and gingivitis,” and urges them to remember that “mouthwash should not be used as a substitute for brushing and flossing.” Atlanta cosmetic dentist Ronald Goldstein, DDS adds that “flossing properly after meals is ideal, but if you have to compromise, flossing after lunch or dinner will do the trick. Be careful not to ‘guillotine’ the gum tissue that grows between your teeth, especially in your anterior teeth, because it can create unattractive black triangles in your smile.”
How Do I Improve My Oral Health?
“My trick for maintaining a clean mouth and good oral health is an electric toothbrush and brushing for a full two minutes,” says Wellington, FL cosmetic dentist Sam S. Sadati, DDS. “While there are a lot of great toothbrush brands out there, the tools are not as important as proper home care and consistency. If you don’t have the time to keep up with a proper oral-care routine, you can both floss and brush while watching T.V. or working to ensure you’re spending enough time to execute both of these important tasks properly. Humans only have one set of adult teeth and those need to last your entire life!”
What Can Bad Oral Health Lead To?
So, what happens if you don’t practice good oral care? More than you’d think, Dr. Lewis points out. “Tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, tooth loss, oral infections, systemic health complications and oral cancer are all possible consequences of not prioritizing oral health. Overall, maintaining good oral hygiene habits, visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings and seeking prompt treatment for any dental issues can help prevent these complications and promote long-term oral and overall health.”
The Best Dentist-Approved Oral Health Products
