Three Keys to Excellent Oral Health

In the United States, having a healthy smile means everything. Not only do 99% of adults believe that a healthy smile is socially important, but a healthy smile is also indicative of positive overall health. For example, poor oral hygiene and periodontal disease are linked to a number of chronic conditions and diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and dementia. Additionally, having poor oral health can cost you in many ways. For example, cavities can lead to expensive oral surgery and the need for painful and costly procedures.
While part of having excellent oral health is certainly genetic, as many are predisposed to cavities and periodontal disease, it isn’t entirely difficult to have a healthy smile. Here are 3 ways to ensure that your oral health is in tip top shape:

Brush Your Teeth — And Your Tongue!
While this one might seem obvious, not enough people brush their teeth twice daily. Use a fluoride whitening toothpaste, moving in slow and gentle circles across the surface of your teeth. After you brush your teeth, be sure to brush your tongue, as it can hold a litany of unhealthy bacteria that can also make your breath stink!

Floss Like There’s No Tomorrow
Believe it or not, brushing alone won’t be enough to achieve perfect oral health. After brushing your teeth, be sure to floss. If you don’t like flossing, invest in dental flossers, as they are much easier to maneuver in the mouth. After flossing, gargle and rinse.

Regular Visits to the Dentist
Regular dental cleanings are imperative to sound dental health. While patients foolishly only visit the dentist an average of three years at a time, you should be visiting your dental health expert at least once a year for a comprehensive dental cleaning. There, they will ensure that your oral health is where it needs to be and they will also be able to treat any problems that you are experiencing.