Maintaining Your Mouth 5 Pro Tips for Having a Healthy Mouth
Did you know that even putting on a fake smile can boost your mood? It’s true! The act of smiling releases happy hormones like dopamine and serotonin!
But, some people avoid smiling at all costs because of the appearance of their teeth. Don’t let your unhealthy mouth get in the way of your happiness anymore.
Keep reading to learn the best tips for a healthy mouth and start smiling today.
1. Practice Proper Brushing
The first step towards promoting oral health is to practice proper brushing.
You should be brushing your teeth at least twice a day using these steps for how to clean your mouth:
Place your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
Gently move the toothbrush back and forth — don’t brush too hard
Make sure to brush the insides, outsides, and chewing surface of all your teeth
Finish with brushing your tongue
Improper brushing can cause a lot more than just yellowed teeth. Poor dental hygiene can lead to more serious conditions like gum disease.
2. Floss Often
Flossing is just as important to oral health as brushing, but only 30% of Americans floss daily. Brushing targets the surfaces of your teeth, but flossing is what removes the food and plaque in between your teeth.
Flossing should occur after you brush your teeth so that the brushing doesn’t cause more build-up between teeth. After you’re done flossing, you can rinse with mouthwash.
If you find that you don’t enjoy using traditional string floss, you can also try water flossing with a water pick.
3. Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Another way how to have a healthy mouth is to avoid consuming foods and drinks contain excess amounts of sugar.
Sugary foods and drinks can lead to cavities and tooth decay. If you do have a sugar craving, be sure to brush and floss immediately after consuming the snack. The longer the sugar lingers on your teeth, the more damage it can cause.
4. Quit Smoking
Another bad habit that affects your mouth health is smoking cigarettes.
Cigarettes contain both nicotine and tar. These ingredients lead to the yellowing of teeth and can cause gum disease or in some cases oral cancer.
Quitting smoking will help other aspects of your health as well — not just your mouth and gums.
5. Regularly Visit Your Dentist
The last, but arguably most important tip, is to regularly visit your dentist.
Experts recommend having a dental check-up at least once every six months. During this appointment, you will receive a deep cleaning and your dentist will check for any issues or abnormalities.
If your dentist does find an issue with your teeth or gums, they may recommend more frequent visits for treatments.
A Happy Smile Starts With a Healthy Mouth
Using these tips for a healthy mouth, you’re well on your way to a happier smile.
Start with proper brushing and flossing. Then make healthy changes like avoiding sugary foods and drinks and quitting smoking. Finally, don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly.
Wondering what other changes you should make for a healthier lifestyle? Head to the Health section of this blog for all the best tips and tricks.
