How to Have Better Oral Hygiene: Essential Tips and Practices

Oral hygiene is essential to maintaining a healthy smile and preventing diseases in the teeth and gums. In addition to fresh breath, good oral hygiene significantly contributes to overall body health, as untreated dental problems can lead to complications in other parts of the body. Here are some practical tips to improve your oral hygiene.

1. Proper Brushing: The First Step to a Healthy Smile
   Brushing is the foundation of good oral hygiene. To ensure you’re doing it effectively, follow these steps:

• Use an appropriate toothbrush: Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles that fits your mouth. Electric toothbrushes can be a good option for those who struggle with manual techniques.
• Use fluoride toothpaste: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and prevents cavities. Make sure your toothpaste contains this substance.
• Brush for 2 minutes: It’s important to brush for at least two minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth (front, back, and chewing).
• Brush your tongue: Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as it accumulates bacteria that can cause bad breath.

2. The Correct Brushing Technique
   Proper brushing technique is key to cleaning your teeth effectively:

• Position the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums.
• Use gentle, circular motions to avoid damaging the enamel or gums.
• Avoid brushing too hard: Brushing with too much pressure can cause gum irritation and enamel wear.

3. Use Dental Floss: Don’t Forget It
   Dental floss is essential for removing plaque and food particles between the teeth, where the toothbrush can’t reach. Here are some tips for using it correctly:

• Use about 45 cm of dental floss and wrap it around your middle fingers, leaving about 5 cm to use between your teeth.
• Gently slide the floss between your teeth: Don’t push it too hard, as it could damage the gums.
• Use it at least once a day: Ideally, floss before going to bed.

4. Mouthwash: Complement Your Routine
   Mouthwash doesn’t replace brushing or flossing, but it’s an excellent addition to keep your mouth fresh and clean. Look for a mouthwash with antimicrobial properties that combat the bacteria responsible for cavities and gum diseases. It’s important to use an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid dry mouth.
5. Regular Dental Visits
   Even if you follow a perfect oral hygiene routine, it’s essential to visit the dentist at least twice a year. Regular checkups allow problems to be detected before they become more serious, such as cavities or periodontal diseases. Additionally, the dentist can perform a professional cleaning, removing tartar that you can’t get rid of with a toothbrush.
6. Healthy Diet for Strong Teeth
   What you eat also affects the health of your teeth. Here are some dietary tips to maintain a healthy mouth:

• Avoid sugars and simple carbohydrates: Sugary foods feed the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities. If you consume sweet foods, brush your teeth as soon as possible.
• Eat calcium-rich foods: Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and nuts are excellent for keeping your teeth strong and healthy.
• Drink plenty of water: Water helps remove food residues from the mouth and keeps the gums hydrated.

7. Quit Smoking
   Tobacco is harmful to oral health as it can cause tooth staining, bad breath, and increases the risk of periodontal diseases and oral cancer. Quitting smoking will not only improve your oral health but also your overall well-being.
8. Considerations for People with Braces
   If you wear braces, maintaining good oral hygiene is even more important. Braces can trap food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum problems. Make sure to brush carefully around the brackets and use specialized dental floss.