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Having a great oral hygiene routine is necessary in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy and looking their best. This involves the basics, like brushing twice a day, flossing, and going to regular dental check-ups. However, there is more to oral care than just cavities and gum disease. A lot of research out there outlines the fact that there is a relationship between the health of someone’s mouth and their overall health. Experts now consider oral health issues a global health burden.

Without getting the right treatment in a timely manner, tooth decay or gum problems will lead to pain, self-confidence issues, and tooth loss. These can then result in malnutrition, speech problems, and other challenges that can affect a person’s work, school, or personal life. You can help prevent any of these problems with the right dental care, both while you are at home and during visits to your local Ajax dental centre. Here are some of the best practices you can follow to help keep your teeth and gums as healthy as they can be.

Always Brush Regularly But Not Too Aggressively

Many people are aware that they should be brushing their teeth twice per day and that it is one of the most important things you can do to remove plaque and bacteria and for keeping your mouth clean. However, brushing can only be effective if you are using the proper methods to brush. People should brush in small circular motions, and they should remember to brush not only the front of their teeth but also the back and tops of all teeth. This should be done for two to three minutes for the best results. People should avoid brushing in sawing back-and-forth motions.

Brushing too hard or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can damage the tooth enamel and your gums. This can result in sensitive teeth, permanent damage to the protective enamel layer of the teeth, and gum erosion.

The American Dental Association recommends using a toothbrush with softer bristles. People should switch toothbrushes every three months or when they begin to look frayed, whichever option comes first.

Use Fluoride

Fluoride originates from the earth’s soil as something called fluorine. Experts think that fluoride helps prevent cavities and is one of the most common ingredients found in toothpaste and mouthwash. However, some dental products will not contain fluoride and some people might not even use fluoride at all. A lack of fluoride can result in tooth decay, even if someone has the perfect oral care routine otherwise. In many places, fluoride can be found in the water supply.

Floss At Least Once Per Day

Flossing is helpful at removing plaque and bacteria stuck between the teeth which a toothbrush cannot reach. It can also help you prevent getting bad breath by helping to remove any debris or food that is lodged between the teeth.