Oral hygiene is crucial for both health and confidence. Good habits and the right products can prevent common dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. However, maintaining good oral hygiene isn't just about brushing and flossing, it's a cornerstone of overall health. These 15 daily habits are crucial for preventing dental issues like cavities and gum disease, ensuring your teeth stay strong and your smile stays bright. Whether you're new to oral care routines or looking to refine your habits, this guide will equip you with practical tips to enhance your oral hygiene regimen effectively.
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Top 15 Daily Habits For Maintaining Oral Hygiene
1. Brushing Twice Daily
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, ideally after meals, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing removes plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Remember to brush gently in circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces, including the inner and outer surfaces, as well as the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Don't forget to brush your tongue gently to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
2. Flossing Every Day
Flossing is essential for cleaning between your teeth and along the gumline, where your toothbrush can't reach. It helps remove plaque and food particles that can lead to plaque buildup and gum disease. To floss properly, use about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 1-2 inches of floss between your hands. Gently guide the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion and curve it around the base of each tooth, making sure to go beneath the gumline. Use a clean section of floss for each tooth to avoid transferring bacteria from one tooth to another.
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3. Using Mouthwash
Incorporate an antibacterial mouthwash into your routine to reduce plaque buildup, freshen your breath, and maintain healthy gums. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. Rinse with mouthwash for about 30 seconds after brushing and flossing, making sure to swish it around your mouth to reach all areas, including between your teeth and along the gumline. Avoid rinsing with water immediately after using mouthwash to allow the fluoride to continue protecting your teeth.
4. Cleaning Your Tongue
Don't forget to clean your tongue daily as part of your oral hygiene routine. Bacteria can accumulate on your tongue and contribute to bad breath and plaque buildup. Use a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush to gently scrape or brush your tongue from back to front to remove bacteria and debris. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after cleaning your tongue to remove any remaining bacteria and debris.
5. Limiting Sugary Foods And Drinks
Limit your intake of sugary snacks and beverages, such as candies, sodas, and juices, as they can contribute to tooth decay and cavities. Bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar and produce acids that can erode tooth enamel and lead to cavities. If you consume sugary foods or drinks, try to do so with meals rather than between meals and rinse your mouth with water afterwards to help neutralize acids and wash away food particles.
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6. Eating Teeth-Friendly Foods
Include crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery in your diet. These foods help clean teeth naturally by stimulating saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles. Chewing crunchy foods also stimulates gums and can help remove plaque and debris from between teeth. Incorporate calcium-rich foods like dairy products and leafy greens into your diet to strengthen tooth enamel and promote healthy teeth and gums.
7. Drinking Plenty Of Water
Drink water throughout the day to rinse away food particles and neutralize acids that can erode tooth enamel. Water also helps stimulate saliva production, which plays a crucial role in protecting teeth from cavities and gum disease. Drinking water with meals can help rinse away food particles and reduce the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. If you drink tap water, you may also benefit from fluoride, which can help strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities.
8. Replacing Your Toothbrush Regularly
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles become worn or frayed. A worn-out toothbrush is less effective at cleaning your teeth and can harbour bacteria and germs. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with water after each use and store it in an upright position to air dry. Avoid sharing toothbrushes with others to prevent the spread of bacteria and germs.
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9. Visiting Your Dentist Regularly
Schedule regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings at least twice a year to maintain optimal oral health. Your dentist can detect and treat oral health issues early, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, which can help prevent more serious problems and expensive treatments. During your dental check-up, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems and recommend appropriate treatment and preventive care.
10. Avoiding Tobacco Products
Avoid smoking and chewing tobacco, as they can stain teeth, cause bad breath, and increase the risk of gum disease, oral cancer, and other serious oral health problems. Smoking and chewing tobacco can also affect your sense of taste and smell and reduce your ability to heal after dental procedures. If you smoke or chew tobacco, talk to your dentist or doctor about strategies to quit and improve your oral and overall health.
11. Using Fluoride Toothpaste
Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride to strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. Brush your teeth twice a day, ideally after meals, using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush gently in circular motions to clean all tooth surfaces, including the inner and outer surfaces, as well as the chewing surfaces of your teeth. Brushing with fluoride toothpaste helps remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease and promotes healthy teeth and gums.
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12. Wearing A Mouthguard
If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth from injury and prevent tooth wear and damage. A mouthguard is a protective device that covers your teeth and gums and absorbs and disperses the force of impact to reduce the risk of dental injuries such as broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and fractured jaws. If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a mouthguard can help prevent tooth wear and damage and reduce jaw pain and discomfort. Talk to your dentist about custom-fitted mouthguards for sports and night guards for bruxism and other strategies to protect your teeth from injury and prevent tooth wear and damage.
13. Being Aware Of Oral Health Changes
Pay attention to any changes in your oral health, such as persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, tooth sensitivity, or changes in the appearance of your teeth and gums. These changes can be signs of underlying oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, or oral cancer. If you notice any changes in your oral health, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible for a thorough examination and diagnosis. Early detection and treatment of oral health problems can help prevent more serious problems and improve your oral health and overall well-being.
14. Practicing Stress Management
Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or exercise to reduce stress and anxiety and improve your overall health and well-being. Stress can contribute to oral health problems such as teeth grinding (bruxism), jaw clenching, and poor oral hygiene habits. These habits can lead to tooth wear and damage, gum disease, and other oral health problems. By practising stress management techniques, you can reduce stress and anxiety, improve your overall health and well-being, and protect your teeth and gums from oral health problems.
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15. Educating Yourself
Stay informed about the latest oral health recommendations, trends, and innovations to improve your oral hygiene routine and maintain optimal oral health. Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about oral health topics such as brushing and flossing techniques, fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, dietary choices for healthy teeth and gums, and preventive care strategies. By educating yourself about oral health topics, you can make informed decisions about your oral hygiene routine and take proactive steps to protect your teeth and gums from oral health problems.
Top Picks On Oral Health And Hygiene From Amazon And Myntra
1. Colgate Proclinical 500R Sensitive Rechargeable Sonic Toothbrush
Discount: 35% | Price: ₹2,999 | M.R.P.: ₹4,600 | Rating: 3.9 out of 5 stars
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is crucial. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Spend at least two minutes brushing, ensuring you cover all surfaces of your teeth. Electric toothbrushes, like the Colgate Proclinical 500R, can enhance your brushing routine with their advanced technology and superior cleaning power. This electric toothbrush combines unique multi-directional brush strokes with soft, thin-tipped bristles for superior cleaning. It offers dual-brushing modes, gentle on gums, and features a replaceable head and a two-minute timer for optimal brushing.
2. ORACURA OC150 Dental PRO Smart Water Flosser
Discount: 35% | Price: ₹2,519 | M.R.P.: ₹3,850 | Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Flossing removes plaque and food particles that a toothbrush cannot reach. For enhanced cleaning, consider using a water flosser like the ORACURA OC150 Dental PRO Smart Water Flosser. It's especially effective for those with braces, implants, or sensitive gums. With a 150ml water tank, 8 nozzle tips, and three flossing modes, this water flosser effectively removes plaque and tartar. Its portable, rechargeable design ensures convenient use anywhere.
3. Dabur Herbal Activated Charcoal Fluoride-Free Toothpaste
Discount: 25% | Price: ₹123 | M.R.P.: ₹165 | Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
Toothpaste plays a vital role in oral hygiene. Charcoal toothpaste, such as Dabur Herb'l Activated Charcoal Fluoride-Free Toothpaste, can help remove surface stains and keep your teeth naturally white. This toothpaste combines charcoal's powerful adsorption properties with mint for a fresh, clean mouth. It's vegan, fluoride-free, and designed to combat plaque and extrinsic stains.
4. Great Oral Health Chewable Children's Oral Probiotics
Discount: 22% | Price: ₹3,109 | M.R.P.: ₹3,999 | Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Probiotics can support oral health by balancing the microbial environment in your mouth. Great Oral Health Chewable Children Oral Probiotics are an excellent choice for both children and adults. These chewable tablets contain seven strains of probiotics, including Blis K12 & M18, to support oral health, reduce bad breath, and promote a balanced microbial environment.
5. Jiva Oil Pulling
Discount: 0% | Price: ₹274 | M.R.P.: ₹275 | Rating: 3.8 out of 5 stars
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that can help detoxify the mouth and improve oral health. Jiva Oil Pulling is a natural and effective product for this purpose. Made with natural oils like sesame and coconut, this product helps reduce plaque, strengthen gums, and promote fresher breath. It's free from harmful chemicals and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
6. GUBB Ayurvedic Copper Tongue Cleaner
Discount: 5% | Price: ₹208 | M.R.P.: ₹219 | Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Cleaning your tongue daily can significantly reduce bad breath and improve taste sensation. The GUBB Ayurvedic Copper Tongue Cleaner is a great tool for this. This tongue cleaner is made from natural copper, offering antimicrobial and anti-bacterial properties. It's designed to effectively remove toxins and bacteria from the tongue, promoting better oral health.
7. Oriygen Vitamin B12 Supplement Oral Spray
Discount: 10% | Price: ₹990 | M.R.P.: ₹1,099 | Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars
Vitamin supplements, such as Oriygen Vitamin B12 Supplement Oral Spray, can support overall health, including oral health. This convenient spray provides a potent dose of vitamin B12, supporting energy, metabolism, and overall well-being. Its rapid absorption and premium quality make it an excellent addition to your health regimen.
8. LOVE EARTH Black Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder
Discount: 15% | Price: ₹381 | M.R.P.: ₹449 | Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars
For those looking to whiten their teeth naturally, products like LOVE EARTH Black Charcoal Teeth Whitening Powder can be very effective. This whitening powder uses activated charcoal to remove stains and improve dental hygiene. It's natural, sustainable, and easy to use, providing a brighter smile without harsh chemicals.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is a daily commitment that pays off with a healthier mouth and a brighter smile. By incorporating these 15 daily habits into your routine, you can maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Consistency and mindfulness in your oral hygiene practices can lead to a healthier smile, improved overall health, and a greater sense of well-being. Shop now.
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