Top five tips for better oral health

Oral health is an important part of modern life and with so many technological advancements in dentistry, contemporary orthodontics and cosmetic dentistry can help to maintain patients’ oral health for longer than ever before. Patients will find these five tips for better oral helpful a useful reference should they be unsure about how best to approach gum and teeth care.

Maintain a thorough cleaning regime

Many people are uncertain about the correct way to brush teeth and as a result they experience a build up of plaque or even tooth decay. Teeth should be brushed at least twice daily using circular motions and a fluoride toothpaste. It is also advisable for a mouth wash and floss to be used to ensure all debris is removed from hard to reach places.

Keep regular dental appointments

Although patients may be visiting their orthodontist for a specific treatment, they will still need to keep to regular dental appointments. One of the simplest ways for a person to keep on top of their oral health is to allow a dentist to check for cavities, tooth decay and any other potential problems associated with teeth and gums. Whether a patient opts for NHS or private dental care, it is important that they attend check-ups when required for preventive care, treatment and referral should it be required.

Invest in invisible braces

Clear braces, such as Invisalign, are extremely popular with adults that require a fast-working and  discreet, teeth-straightening treatment. These almost invisible aligners are removable allowing patients to clean their teeth without worrying about bits of food become trapped in fixed wires. Crooked teeth can impair oral health by allowing food to become trapped in overlapping teeth and making it difficult for patients to clean their teeth effectively which is why teeth-straightening and barely-there braces are considered one of the top five cosmetic dental treatments.

Stop smoking

Many people are aware of the potential health risks associated with smoking, such as lung cancer and mouth cancer, yet few realise just how many oral health implications are also associated with continuously smoking tobacco. The smoking of tobacco causes reduced blood supply to the mouth and gums which can lead to tooth loss. Other problems associated with smoking include staining of teeth, gum disease, bad breath and an increase in tartar and plaque. Dentists often advise their patients to embark on smoking cessation courses as these can prove to be more effective than attempting to stop smoking without intervention or assistance.

Stop eating sugary snacks

This is perhaps the most obvious piece of advice for those wanting to ensure they have the best oral health, but it can also be the most difficult advice to follow when one I tempted by sweet treats. It is advisable to avoid eating between meals and to drink water instead of sugary juices. Brushing after meal times can also help, but overall it is best to stop eating sugary snacks, even those that many people assume to be healthy, such as cereal bars, and fruit juices.