Your teeth have a vital role in the digestive system. They break down the food that you eat everyday into pieces so it will be easier for your body to absorb the nutrients. Poor oral health may cause a lot of problems. If you have missing or damaged teeth, it will be hard to chew and shred the food.
It may then result in a restricted diet that can further lead to digestive diseases and other serious health conditions.
As they say, it is better to prevent than to cure.Visiting your dentist regularly is one great way of maintaining a good oral health.
Also, there are some ways that you can do on your own to take care of your teeth.
BRUSH YOUR TEETH REGULARLY
Ideally, you have to clean your teeth after you eat breakfast, lunch and dinner especially before you go to bed because the mouth does not have salivary protection as much as it has during the daytime. Make sure that you brush all the sides of your teeth. Use toothpaste with fluoride. Gargling with mouthwash after brushing would help too.
FLOSS AT LEAST ONCE A DAY
When you brush your teeth, there are areas that cannot be reached by your toothbrush, and so flossing is greatly recommended. It can eliminate food particles that get stuck in between your teeth. Flossing is usually done at night time before you brush.
EAT HEALTHY FOODS
Avoid foods that are rich in sugar because sweet foods like candies, chocolates and soft drinks can cause tooth decay. Eat fruits and vegetables as they provide nutrients that help fight infections. Foods and drinks that are rich in calcium are strongly recommended because calcium makes your teeth stronger.
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Avoid smoking and drinking. Cigarettes and alcohols have harmful substances that can damage your teeth. The tar and nicotine from cigarettes stain your teeth, making them yellowish or even brownish in color over time. Smoking can also cause serious gum problems. It results in a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream and so infection in the gums does not heal.
SEE YOUR DENTIST
Visit your dentist at least every after six months for cleaning. Your dentist can demonstrate to you the proper way of brushing your teeth. He or she can also check if any of your teeth is starting to get damaged. If it is the case, then you will be given preventive measurements to address the problem as soon as possible.