The mouth is one of the most essential parts of your body, as anything you eat or drink is through the mouth. It is also one of the most neglected parts of the human body as most people think that brushing once or twice a day for 20-30 seconds is enough care without knowing that this is part of the human body that harbours maximum bacteria many folds more than your hands or the food you eat. So taking oral care is very important as Teeth are our best friends, and if taken care of, they will serve us till our last breath.
Tips for a healthy mouth
- Regular Brushing
Regularly brush at least twice a day for two minutes, cleaning all the areas gently with a soft brush and the proper brushing technique. Using a stiff brush or the wrong method can harm the teeth and gums. Nowadays, many mechanical brushes are available, which are very good and should be utilized for teeth cleaning. Most people think brushing in the morning is enough, but brushing at night is equally essential as bacteria are most active during sleep. Toothpaste containing fluoride help prevent cavities. Fluoride toothpaste is generally safe and recommended for both children and adults. But it’s important to use it correctly, especially for babies and young children.
2. Regular Flossing
Regular flossing is a must. According to a study, not even 1% of Indians use dental floss, which is as essential as brushing. As with brushing, you can clean only 65% of the tooth structure, and the sides remain dirty. So, it is necessary to clean the sides with dental floss. It’s a little tricky to use floss.
So, I recommend you visit your dentist and learn how to floss correctly. Water flossing is widely available (Water Pik or Water Floss). This is very effective in cleaning the sides of the teeth.
3. Tongue Cleaning
Cleaning of the tongue is also an essential part of oral hygiene. Regular cleaning of the tongue daily, either with a soft brush and tongue cleaning paste or with a soft tongue cleaner, should be done twice a day
4. Gum massage:
Gum massaging is also very important for the overall health of the oral cavity as gums hold around the tooth, and strong gums are essential for a healthy tooth. Gum messages can be done with mustard oil with a pinch of salt or commercially available gum messages. One can also use Datun (Indian brush babool or neem sticks). They are perfect for cleaning teeth and gum care as their tannins reduce bacteria and promote gum health.
5. Using Mouthwash
Mouthwash is also essential as it reaches every nook and canny of the mouth and promotes oral health. One can use lukewarm salt water or any commercially available mouthwash.
6. Eat a Healthy Diet
Proper diet is also one of the most critical factors in improving overall oral health. Nowadays people eat lots of unhealthy and fast food as there is a lack of time and these foods are loaded with refined carbohydrates, preservatives and taste enhancers which are bad for your health. These refined carbohydrates are sticky and promote the growth of bacteria in the mouth, All such refined food should be avoided (Bread, Biscuits, Cakes, Burgers, Pizzas, Chips, etc.). Apart from that, Gums Candies Chocolates are loaded with refined sugars, and are sticky too, all such food items should be avoided. For effective oral health, you require lots of Vitamins and Minerals in appropriate quantities, so your diet should include lots of fruits, vegetables, grains, pulses, etc. Eating crunchy fruits like green apples or sugarcane can reduce up to 99% of bacteria in the mouth, i.e. much more than even after brushing.
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7. Quit Smoking
Smoking not only has adverse effects on your overall health, but it can also significantly impact your oral health. Smoking can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, and even oral cancer. If you are a smoker, consider quitting to improve your oral health and overall well-being.
8. Visit Your Dentist
Last but not least, visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings every four to six months, as prevention is always better and cheaper than cure, so dental problems can be identified and cured in the very initial stages and taken care of before they cause significant damage.
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The article was contributed by Dr Puneet Mehrotra, one of Mumbai’s leading dentists.
He can be reached at +91 9821545235