|
Making a difference in your oral health can be done in only a few minutes a day. And as long as you are brushing — and flossing — do it the right way and make a big impact on your oral health and your overall health. Check out the following tips on fast ways to make a big difference.
Brushing & Flossing: Do it Right
Read this step-by-step explanation of the correct approach to brushing and flossing.
+ How to Brush and floss correctly
Watch What You Eat
It's true what moms have always said: that sugar and candy aren't good for teeth. But there are other foods that are less than ideal for taking care of our mouths. Starchy foods like pretzels, non-whole wheat breads and potato chips tend to stay in the mouth a long time, promoting bacteria growth. Sugary and sticky foods are also good ones to avoid. When you do partake of these types of foods, try to brush soon afterwards.
Luckily, the same diet that is good for your entire body is also beneficial to your oral health. A varied diet that includes foods high in vitamin C, calcium, folic acid, zinc, iron and vitamin D are great for your oral health. So look to citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, yogurt and milk. There are even some specific foods that can inhibit bacteria growth and neutralize the acid that encourages plaque. Foods like peanuts, aged cheddar, swiss and monterey jack cheeses may have a positive impact on your oral health.
Check Your Skills
Many people have been brushing their teeth the same way for years. Other than semi-annual trips to the dentist, we often don't get any feedback on how well we brush. A disclosing tablet or solution, available from most drugstores, is a great way to evaluate your brushing technique. Brush the way you normally do with your Sonicare (or if you're curious, with a manual toothbrush) and then look at the places you missed. Then brush again following the brushing tips and check out the difference.
Pop a Stick of Gum
Chewing a piece of sugarless gum after meals or when your mouth feels dry will stimulate the production of saliva, which neutralizes the acid in the mouth. This can translate into fewer cavities. (Note: chewing gum isn't recommended for people with jaw joint problems or braces.)
|