Having healthy teeth, gums, and mouth is essential for a good quality of life. Although it is an issue that many may take for granted, it is very important to take some care.
Good dental health not only brings aesthetic benefits but also helps prevent tooth decay, infections, and periodontal diseases, which according to the World Health Organization affect 20% of middle-aged adults (35-44 years) and also in its most serious stages can lead to loss of teeth. Oral diseases can be prevented through health and hygiene habits that must be practiced daily.
The importance of having good oral health goes beyond its aesthetic function of having a beautiful smile. The mouth has a series of very important biological functions as part of the digestive system, for the incorporation of food in our body, and in human communication through phonation.
Good oral health helps us to improve our self-esteem thanks to its reflection in the smile and in fluid communication with others. On the other hand, healthy and strong teeth make it easier to chew and swallow food.
Diet and habits
1.- Follow a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables that help to strengthen and protect the teeth and gums. Milk and its derivatives provide us with calcium and phosphorus, essential elements for teeth.
2.- Reduce the frequency and amount of sugars, especially between meals.
3.- Avoid tobacco that not only stains the teeth but also encourages the accumulation of tartar, in addition to damaging gums and, of course, our health.
Hygiene for good oral health
4.- Brush the teeth and the rest of the oral cavity carefully for 2 or 3 minutes, at least 2 times a day, preferably after meals and before going to bed.
5.- Use dental floss or interdental brushes to remove food residues and dental biofilm in spaces inaccessible to brushes.
6.- Using mouthwashes after each brushing, which facilitates access to those areas of the mouth that the brush does not reach effectively and helps us to have good breath. Rinsing your mouth twice a day for a few minutes is sufficient.
7.- Brushing the tongue at least once a day eliminates the bacteria that, in 40%, accumulate on its surface.
8.- Change our brush at least every three months.
9.- Do not share the toothbrush to avoid possible infections in case of diseases.
10.- Always use pharmacy toothpaste and rinses. The choice will depend on our needs but it is important that they contain an adequate amount of fluoride.
Other tips
11.- Visiting a dentist at least twice a year will help us avoid cavities and other oral problems, preventing risks in the future. He will also advise us on how to carry out proper oral hygiene.
12.- If you are pregnant, protect yourself from cavities as their risk of occurrence increases during pregnancy due to the acids that are produced due to vomiting, which are frequent especially in the first months of pregnancy. There is also a greater propensity to gingivitis during the gestational period, so it is highly recommended to monitor the condition of the gums and go for a regular check-up with your dentist.
