Good Oral Hygiene – A Gateway to Good Health

Healthy, sparkling teeth and good oral hygiene are mandatory for staying healthy. It is important right from the time you have your first tooth. And here is why.

Healthy teeth

• Help you chew your food well
• Help you speak clearly
• Give you a great smile and,
• Help you look your best

Now let’s quickly browse through some of the most common dental problems and what causes them.

Tooth Decay and Dental Caries: When debris of starch- and sugar-rich food, be it your home food or junk food, remains on the teeth, the bacteria in the mouth breed on it, converting it into acid. This acid along with the saliva forms tartar and plaque, which cling to the enamel or outer surface of the teeth. If ignored, it may gradually corrode the tooth enamel leading to decay, cavities and often severe toothache. Eating may become difficult, which in turn will affect your overall health.

Bad breath or Halitosis: It is another common dental problem faced by many. It is often a consequence of plaque and tartar accumulating in the mouth. Though there are many factors responsible for the foul oral odour, including pungent foods, dry mouth, and respiratory infections, to name a few, poor dental hygiene remains a prime reason.
Believe me, it is a disgusting experience when you talk to someone with a bad breath. To find out if are one of them, take a simple test. Blow into your palm and smell your breath. Is it fresh or is there a bad odor?  In case, you do have bad breath issues, no worries, it is never too late to take corrective measures.

Stained teeth: Yellow or grey stains on the teeth may be caused by regular consumption of acidic foods, tea, coffee, certain dark-coloured fruit juices, smoking, and nicotine-based mouth fresheners, to name a few. Discoloured teeth can make you lose your smile and confidence. After all, who wants to show their stained teeth, when someone calls out “Say cheese..“ But when you have a set of 32 healthy and sparkling teeth, you are likely to flaunt them often.
But how do you achieve and maintain the pearly smile?  It’s really simple. The secret lies in a teeny bit of self-discipline, self-commitment and knowing the right oral care regime.
Brushing is the first key to healthy teeth and gums. Brush gently, at least twice a day. Brush for 2 to 3 minutes, using proper brushing techniques. Rinse your mouth thoroughly. And don’t forget to scrape your tongue.
Rinse your mouth after you eat or drink anything.
Flossing once a day is another important step; it helps dislodge food stuck between the teeth, where your brush can’t reach.
And finally, use an anti-bacterial mouthwash, which also leaves behind a fresh feel in the mouth.
Include plenty of fibre-rich fruits and vegetables in the diet, raw salads are recommended.
Minimize intake of sweetened snacks and beverages.
Drink plenty of water.
And finally, go for regular dental checkups and cleanings. But remember, while your dentist can treat your oral problems and remove any build-up on your teeth, it does not replace daily dental care, which is entirely up to you.
Your teeth are your partner for life, take good care of them and they in turn will keep you healthy.