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We recently asked the leading dentists of the country about how to practice optimal oral health. Some of the best advice came from a Tomball dentist in Texas. He stated that dental health is much more important than many people realize, meaning you should be taking some serious measures to keep your mouth healthy. And brushing twice a day simply isn’t enough to make that happen.
There’s quite a lot you can do if top-notch oral health is important to you. In addition to brushing, flossing, and gargling mouthwash when you can, you could be doing more. Follow these best practices for optimal oral health that will keep your teeth and gums stronger than ever.
Don’t Believe the Negativity Surrounding Fluoride
There has been a lot of controversy over one chemical compound in particular over the past several decades: fluoride. Is it good, is it bad, does it cause serious health problems, is it essential to oral health? Who even knows the answers to these questions anymore with so much controversy on whether or not fluoride is healthy or not.
Healthline says that you should try not to believe all of the negative hype regarding fluoride. “When it comes to toothpaste, there are more important elements to look for than whitening power and flavors. No matter which version you choose, make sure it contains fluoride,” says Healthline.
Of course, you can make your own decision on the good vs bad aspects of fluoride, but many medical associations say that it should 100% be included in toothpaste. It is the leading defense against tooth decay, and studies have shown that individuals foregoing fluoride in their toothpaste have a higher risk of developing cavities.
Flossing Should Be Done More Than You Think
Many people have been taught that flossing every now and then will suffice. Even some dentists say that it is enough to floss a few times per week. This is the case for some, but for others it is not enough. You need to treat flossing as if it is just as important as brushing – mainly because it is.
People with tight teeth especially should floss every day, and not just to extract tiny pieces of food from in between the teeth. Flossing also helps with strengthening the gums, fighting plaque, and producing saliva. Flossing can be difficult for some, especially for older individuals experiencing arthritis, but there are several flossing aids on the market to help out.
Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day
You’ve probably heard the phrase “drink more water” more times than you can count. Water is great for the body, and staying hydrated is important for nearly all bodily functions. Did you know it’s even important for oral health? Just as drinking enough water keeps the skin looking young and vibrant, it keeps the teeth strong and gums even stronger.
A major part of oral health has to do with saliva production. If your mouth isn’t producing enough saliva, then it’s not considered to be healthy. This can lead to dry mouth, bad breath, even tooth decay. Drinking water is the ultimate way to ensure that saliva production continues at an optimal rate.