Your oral health is an essential aspect of your overall well-being, and taking good care of your teeth and gums should be a priority. Dental care can be quite expensive, especially if your health insurance policy doesn’t provide coverage or if you live in mid-tier states like South California, Kentucky, and New Jersey, which rank fairly low on health scores. In fact, dentists in South California are the second least paid ($132,830 annually), just above Idaho ($124,750 annually). While the job predicted job growth for dentists in South Carolina is 14.5%, you still have your work cut out in case you’re looking for options.
That said, following a few simple tips can help you take great care of your teeth. Here’s what you should do:
Brush your teeth twice a day
Brushing helps remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, causing tooth decay and gum disease. To get the best results, brush your teeth in the morning and before bed. Use fluoride toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft bristles, and brush for two minutes, ensuring that you clean every tooth and the tongue. A good technique involves holding the brush at a 45-degree angle and circular and back-and-forth motions.
Consider orthodontic treatment
Straight teeth and a good, firm bite can improve your oral health, as well as your smile. If you have problems with the alignment of your teeth, orthodontic treatment can help fix them. Depending on your specific needs, orthodontic treatment can include traditional braces, clear aligners, or other applications.
California and Texas are the highest-ranked states for dental care solutions in the US. Getting recommendations shouldn’t be too hard. But if you’re living in the mid-tier states mentioned earlier, like South Carolina, you can find dental clinics that provide reliable orthodontic treatment in Spartanburg and nearby cities. A consultation with an orthodontist can help determine the best corrective action for correcting alignment. You must address orthodontic issues as early as possible, as they can lead to more serious oral health problems if left untreated.
Floss regularly
Flossing is just as important as brushing; it helps remove plaque and debris stuck between your teeth and the gum line that a toothbrush can’t do. Pair it with your nighttime routine.
There are different floss types, including waxed and unwaxed, flavored and unflavored, and thin and thick. Choose a type of floss that you’re comfortable using, and floss gently but thoroughly, ensuring you reach between every tooth.
Stay away from sugary and acidic food and drinks
Sugary and acidic food and drinks can weaken your tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth. Over time, weakened enamel can lead to tooth decay, so try to limit these types of foods and drinks as much as possible. If you have a sweet tooth, satiate your cravings with a meal instead of a snack. Consequently, the increased saliva production during the meal will help neutralize the harmful acids.
Drink plenty of water
Drinking water not only helps rinse away food particles and bacteria stuck in the corners of your mouth, but it also neutralizes harmful acids in your mouth. Staying hydrated is also crucial for maintaining good overall health.
Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water daily, and choose water instead of sugary drinks like soda. If you find water too bland, flavor it with fruits
Replace your toothbrush frequently
A worn-out toothbrush can’t clean your teeth effectively, so you should change it after using it for a few months or sooner if the bristles are tattered. Frequently replacing your toothbrush ensures you’re brushing with a tool that’s in good condition and can clean your teeth effectively.
Visit the dentist recurrently
Visiting the dentist often for checkups and tooth cleaning is crucial to catch and prevent oral health problems before they worsen. During a checkup, your dentist will examine your teeth, check for signs of underlying problems, and perform a thorough scaling.
Scaling helps to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can’t be removed by brushing and flossing alone. Most dentists recommend walking in for scaling every six months, but some people may need to visit more often, especially if they indulge in smoking and drinking.
Don’t use tobacco products
Using tobacco products can have serious negative effects on your oral health. Tobacco can cause tooth discoloration, bad breath, and slow healing after dental procedures. It can also increase the risk of oral cancer and gum disease.
If you smoke or use tobacco products regularly, quitting is the best thing you can do for your oral and overall health. Your dentist can help you quit and will most likely recommend products to support your journey.
Conclusion
The above-mentioned dental care tips can help you maintain good oral health and a healthy smile. Remember to brush, floss, and visit the dentist regularly. If you have any oral health concerns, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a dentist. Take care of your teeth, and enjoy a lifetime of good oral health!