Functional Medicine
As a dentist can share, many patients ask how to keep their teeth healthy and strong in order to maintain their overall health as part of a functional medicine outlook on life. While there is no magic formula for perfect oral health, there are several things you can do to help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.
Here are some tips to help you maintain good oral hygiene and keep your teeth looking and feeling their best.
Brush and Floss Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to keep your teeth healthy is to brush and floss regularly. Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing should be done at least once a day to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
Eat a Healthy Diet
Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, as they can increase your risk of cavities and enamel erosion.
Limit Your Intake of Sugary and Acidic Drinks
Sugary and acidic drinks like soda, sports drinks, and fruit juice can harm your teeth. The sugar in these drinks can feed the bacteria in your mouth, leading to cavities and tooth decay. Acidic drinks can also erode your enamel, making your teeth more vulnerable to cavities and sensitivity. Limit your intake of these drinks and opt for water or milk instead.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can check for cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems and provide treatment if necessary. They can also offer advice on how to improve your oral hygiene routine and keep your teeth healthy between appointments.
Consider Dental Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are two preventive measures that can help keep your teeth healthy. Sealants are thin plastic coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of your molars to protect them from cavities. Fluoride treatments are applied to your teeth to strengthen your enamel and protect against decay.
Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your oral hygiene routine. It can help freshen your breath and kill bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride and use it after brushing and flossing for the best results.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking can have a significant impact on your oral health. It can cause bad breath, stain your teeth, and increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, including your oral health.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth healthy. Brush and floss regularly, eat a healthy diet, limit your intake of sugary and acidic drinks, visit a dentist regularly, consider dental sealants and fluoride treatments, use mouthwash, and don’t smoke. By following these tips, you can help prevent dental problems and keep your smile looking and feeling its best.
