4 Ways To Keep Your Mouth Healthier

I have learned that the mouth, teeth, and gums are more important than most people think. Yes, obviously, we need teeth to chew food, but oral health, in general, plays a large role in our overall health. It is, therefore, imperative to pay close attention to what’s going on in your mouth. The truth is, any pain, redness, and changes in the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues can be a warning sign for dangerous issues. I highly recommend taking exemplary care of your mouth. The following things are a good place to start.

See Your Dentist Regularly

Around half of the U.S. population doesn’t regularly get dental checkups and care. In fact, most of them only go when there is a problem. Since prevention is much better than cure, it serves to receive a checkup every six months or so. This way, your dentist can make recommendations for necessary dental care. If your teeth, tongue, or gums reveal an underlying problem such as tooth decay or an abscess forming, they’ll be able to take care of it sooner rather than later.  

Eliminate or Limit Soda Intake

Fizzy soda like colas might be refreshing and taste great, but these drinks can be hard on the enamel finish on your teeth. Two of the main ingredients of soda are citric acid and phosphoric acid, both known to erode the surface of your teeth, making them weak and more prone to fractures and decay. Not to mention, soda is full of unnecessary sugar and contributes to other poor health conditions. If you drink more than a can of soda a day, it’s important to cut down or, better yet, give it up entirely. Soda is fine for an occasional treat, but for everyday hydration, consider drinking water.

Quit Smoking 

We all know smoking is bad for our health, but also know it’s bad for our teeth too. The chemicals in cigarettes (mainly nicotine and tar) stain teeth an unsightly yellow or brown color to start with. Constant exposure to these chemicals also can slowly erode gums, pulling them away from the teeth. This leaves larger areas where bacteria can breed and infection can form. 

When tissue is damaged, the gum and bone that supports the teeth degrade, leaving your oral and overall health at risk for serious complications. So it’s best to stop smoking altogether for the sake of your health and your teeth. 

Use Quality Oral Care Products and Equipment

If it is in your budget, invest in quality oral hygiene products and equipment. This includes good, toxin-free toothpaste, oral rinse, toothbrush, and water cleaning system. When I started using better products, my oral health changed dramatically. The main improvement came after investing in a water-based cleaning system. Seeing and feeling a difference has motivated me to continue better oral care every day. Also, replace your toothbrush every three months or so or as directed by the manufacturer and your dentist. 

Taking care of your mouth is one of those things that many people take for granted. This is mainly because proper oral care may not have been emphasized or taken as seriously as it should have been. Unfortunately, neglect of this area can be the cause of more than a toothache. Some serious issues including systemic inflammation, cardiovascular health, and even neurological problems can be influenced by poor oral health. I encourage you to do the research to educate yourself about the importance of good oral health and how to keep your mouth healthier.

**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Women’s lifelink, its owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors, and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.