When it comes to maintaining good health, the little things you do or don’t do every day really make a difference. As it turns out, the same holds true for your oral health. Brushing at least twice a day and flossing at least once a day are absolutely essential to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. But there are other habits that you should adopt – and some you should avoid – that can make a huge difference in your oral health.
- Eat a healthy diet: What you eat can most definitely impact the health of your teeth and gums, so eating a healthy diet not only helps maintain your overall good health; it helps your oral health as well. Enjoying a diet that includes lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products is a great habit to develop and follow every day. Try to stay away from too much sugar, which can wreak havoc on your overall health, as well as your teeth and gums.
- Get plenty of sleep: Recent studies have demonstrated a direct connection between lack of sleep and periodontal (gum) disease. Not sleeping enough can also have devastating effects on your overall health. Experts believe that lack of sleep can compromise your immune system, making you more susceptible to health issues such as gum disease. Most adults should get 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night, and children might require more than that.
- Don’t smoke: Smoking tobacco is bad for you in every way, including the damage it can do to your teeth and gums. Researchers have found that smoking suppresses a person’s host-defense system, and that can result in the worsening of gum health (not to mention the fact that smoking stains your teeth).
- Drink alcohol in moderation: While there’s nothing wrong with having an occasional glass of wine or a beer, you should avoid drinking too much alcohol. Not only is excessive drinking bad for many of your internal organs, but the acidity in alcohol can damage the enamel of your teeth and may contribute to the formation of oral and throat cancers.
- Visit your dentist regularly: In addition to a daily oral hygiene routine you follow at home, you should visit your dentist at least twice a year for professional cleanings and exams. You can’t remove all the plaque and tartar that builds up on teeth without the help of a dental hygienist. And many conditions – such as the early stages of gum disease or oral cancer – can only be identified by your dentist.
There’s no doubt about it: when it comes to healthy teeth and gums, our everyday habits make a difference. Follow these healthy habits to ensure a lifetime of good oral health.
