Good oral hygiene is crucial for overall health and wellness. Taking care of your teeth and gums not only helps maintain a healthy smile but also has an impact on other parts of your body. Poor dental care can lead to problems like tooth decay and gum disease and has been linked with conditions like diabetes, dementia, and heart disease.
While you might not be able to control every factor affecting your oral health, keeping a routine of brushing and flossing daily is essential, as well as visiting the dentist regularly. It’s recommended to see a dentist at least twice a year, although some people might need to go more often depending on their gum health. During these appointments, dentists can check for any unusual changes in your teeth.
Brushing seems straightforward, but small adjustments in how and how long you brush can make a difference. For instance, using a soft toothbrush is generally best, with a suggestion for those with very thin gum tissue to opt for an even softer brush. Brushing at a 45-degree angle along the gum line using small circles is advisable. After eating, wait around 20 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging the enamel, as food and drinks create acid in your mouth.
Selecting the right products can also enhance your oral hygiene. A bamboo toothbrush from MamaP, which significantly reduces plastic use, is environmentally friendly and contributes to charity. Tom’s of Maine’s Naturally Clean Toothbrush, made from renewable resources, is another option that makes reaching tough spots in your mouth easier with its angled neck and multi-height bristles.
Traveling or needing a midday brush requires a compact solution like Doctor Plotka’s Mouthwatchers toothbrush. Electric toothbrushes, such as the Philips Sonicare, offer advanced features like a pressure sensor and built-in timer to aid effective brushing. CURAPROX’s Hydrosonic Pro is notable for its high-speed brush strokes and versatility in brushing levels.
When it comes to toothpaste, options include fluoride-free formulas like Davids Sensitive+Whitening with nano-Hydroxyapatite, which helps strengthen tooth enamel. CVS Health’s Gum & Enamel Repair Toothpaste works to counteract bacteria at the gum line. Fluoride toothpaste, which is mandatory in any product with the ADA Seal of Acceptance, is crucial for maintaining dental health by remineralizing enamel.
For whitening needs, Colgate Optic White Pro Series uses hydrogen peroxide to remove surface stains. Using toothpaste from Tom’s of Maine not only benefits oral health but also supports charitable causes. Dr. Rubinshtein recommends avoiding alcohol-based mouthwashes as they can cause dry mouth and bad breath. Options like Hello Naturally Healthy Antigingivitis avoid harmful additives and feature soothing ingredients like aloe vera.
Flossing is essential to remove debris brushing misses. Consider floss without PFAS, such as Burst, which expands when wet for better coverage. Mintly Dental Floss offers an eco-friendly choice with its plant-based materials and recyclable packaging. For broader cleaning needs, water flossers like the Waterpik Sonic-Fusion 2.0 can be particularly helpful for those with dental work.
Philips Sonicare Cordless Power Flosser 3000 provides a powerful and portable option for thorough cleaning, while the Smile Brilliant CariPRO Water Flosser combines long battery life with efficient flossing.
Teeth-whitening strips, like Crest 3DWhitestrips, can effectively remove stains. However, it’s important to use them cautiously based on personal sensitivity. For comprehensive oral care, include tools like tongue scrapers—such as those from DrTung’s—to help eliminate bacteria from the tongue.
By incorporating these practices and products, you can foster a healthier mouth and by extension, a healthier you.
