How to Take Care of Your Teeth?

Healthy gums and teeth can make it easy and convenient for you to eat well and enjoy the food. Many problems can affect the health of your mouth and if you do not pay attention to them, it could lead to severe problems in your health and body. Good care can keep the gums and teeth strong as you age. Here are a few things you need to know about looking after your teeth.

Tooth decay

Your teeth are covered with a hard, outer coating which is known as enamel and every day there is a thin film of bacteria known as dental plaque which will build upon the teeth. The bacteria can cause cavities and lead to more damage. Brushing and flossing the teeth will prevent decay but if there is a cavity, you will need to visit a dentist for a filling. According to Rio Rancho smiles, the Rio Rancho dentist recommends the use of fluoride toothpaste to protect the teeth from decay. 

Gum disease

Gum disease will start when there is a plaque built up under and along the gum line. This plaque can lead to an infection that hurts the bone and gum that holds the teeth in place. If there is a mild infection, it will make the gums red and more sensitive. This problem which is known as gingivitis can usually be fixed by regular brushing and flossing. If there is a more severe problem, it will only be treated by a dentist. If you do not treat it, you will have bleeding gums and it can cause chewing problems and even tooth loss. In order to prevent gum disease, you must brush your teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly. Eat a well-balanced diet and try to quit smoking. 

Best ways to clean your gums and teeth every day

• Brush your teeth on all sides using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. You must replace the toothbrush every few months. 
• Always brush in small, circular motions and short strokes back and forth. 
• Do not be very harsh, brush gently and carefully on the gum line. 
• Slowly brush your tongue or use a tongue cleaner to keep your mouth clean.
• Carefully clean between the teeth using dental floss, a water flosser, or threaded flossers. It will help remove the leftover food and plague where your toothbrush cannot reach. 
• Rinse after flossing. 
• You can also use a battery-operated toothbrush for this purpose. 

Dentures

There are times when dentures are required to replace the damaged teeth or teeth lost due to gum disease. Dentists also use partial dentures to fill in a missing tooth. They could feel strange in the beginning but you will get used to it. With time, your gums will change shape and the dentures may need to be replaced or adjusted. Just let your dentist handle it for you. Be careful when you learn to eat with dentures, it can be easier if you start with soft food and cut the food into small pieces. Use both sides of the mouth to chew and chew slowly. It is important to keep the dentures clean at all times. Brush them every day using denture care products and soak them in water at night. 

Dry Mouth 

You will have a dry mouth if you do not have enough spit or saliva in the mouth to keep it wet. It could become hard to speak, eat, taste, or swallow if you have a dry mouth. Additionally, it can also increase the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and fungal infections in the mouth. Try to sip water and sugarless drinks to feel better. Do not smoke, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and stay away from spicy foods.  

Oral Cancer

A life-threatening condition, oral cancer can start in any part of the mouth or the throat and usually happens to people over 40. Whenever you go for a dental checkup, the dentist will look for signs of oral cancer. It is best to start treatment at the earliest before it spreads. Even if you have lost all your natural teeth, you must see the dentist for oral cancer exams. However, this condition can be avoided. Stay away from tobacco products, use lip balm with sunscreens and reduce alcohol intake. You must also avoid e-cigarettes as they contain cancer-causing chemicals.

No matter your age, it is important to maintain oral hygiene and visit a dentist at least twice a year. Even if you do not have any conditions, you should go for a regular checkup to avoid any serious health issues. In case of an oral condition, try to speak to the dentist about the best ways you can overcome the same. Remember to brush and floss twice a day every day and try to quit smoking.