Posted by WAYNE H. MORI on Jun 14 2022, 10:42 PM
Good oral health means that you have healthy teeth and gums and that your mouth is free of disease. Having healthy teeth and gums means that your mouth is free of decay, gum disease, and infection. It also means you have healthy saliva production, healthy saliva flow, and healthy saliva composition.
The best way to improve your oral health is by following good oral hygiene practices. It involves brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Failure to maintain good oral hygiene can result in a number of dental health issues, such as tooth decay, periodontal disease, and cavities. Poor oral hygiene can also cause bad breath, gum disease, and tooth loss.
You should brush twice a day for two minutes each time to effectively remove food particles and plaque from the teeth surface and in between the teeth. When you brush, make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride.
Flossing is as important as brushing and should be done once a day. It helps eliminate accumulated plaque and other debris from areas in between the teeth where your toothbrush can't reach.
Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help kill oral bacteria. In addition to keeping your mouth healthy, it can also help freshen your breath. There are many types of mouthwash on the market to choose from, so be sure to choose one that contains fluoride, which will help strengthen your teeth as well.
One of the best things you can do to maintain good oral hygiene is to visit us every six months. During these visits, we will clean your teeth and check for cavities and other dental issues. If we find a problem, we'll provide treatment right away. We'll also take x-rays and screen you for oral cancer.
Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco can stain your teeth, causes bad breath, and irritates your gums. It can also cause dry mouth, which leads to the development of decay. Smoking also weakens your immune system. This makes you more susceptible to gum disease, as your body is not able to fight off infections as effectively as before.
Eating a healthy diet is beneficial to your dental health. Foods high in calcium and vitamin C help strengthen tooth enamel.
Visit Wayne H Mori, D.M.D., 700 NE Multnomah St Suite 850, Portland, OR 97232, to know more tips on maintaining your oral health. Contact us at (503) 230-8814 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.