Did you know that in addition to being the first day of spring, March 20th is also World Oral Health Day (WOHD)? This occasion began in 2013 when the FDI World Dental Federation wanted to hammer home the importance of dental care as a necessary component of overall health.
Living Mouth Smart
To aid in the mission of encouraging good oral health, we’ve put together our top seven ways to keep your pearly whites in order.
1. Instill Habits in Children Early
Whether they’re good or bad, habits start developing at a young age. If you want your kids to grow up with a healthy set of gums and teeth that last a lifetime, it’s never too early to start encouraging good oral hygiene. For more information about how to encourage good oral health in children, check out the tips in our post about National Children’s Dental Health Month.
2. Use Fluoride Safely
Exposing teeth to fluoride, especially in children under 6-years-old, strengthens their enamel against future acid attacks. Visiting the dentist regularly ensures you are getting the proper amount of fluoride.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet That’s Low in Sugary Foods
Eating sugary foods or drinking sugary drinks helps bacteria in your mouth create acids that eat away at your enamel. For a healthy smile, keep sugar to a minimum. If you must indulge, brush your teeth soon after to keep the sugars from setting in and wreaking havoc on your pearly whites
4. Brush Twice a Day and Floss Daily
This is the most essential and effective way to prevent tooth decay. While two brushings and one flossing per day is sufficient, adding in an extra round after a sugary or high-carb meal is a great idea.
5. Get Regular Dental Check-Ups
Brushing and flossing is effective, but even the most seasoned brushers and flossers leave plaque behind. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed during a professional dental cleaning.
6. Protect Teeth During Sports
When participating in sports or activities that deal with flying equipment, falling, or blows to the head, it’s necessary to wear a mouth-guard to protect your teeth. You’ll be glad you did!
7. Don’t Smoke
Smokers have an increased risk for a number of oral issues, including bad breath, oral cancer, gum disease, bone loss and more.
A Healthy Smile for Life
WOHD may be one day, but these are year-round tips! These tools will help ensure that your teeth stay healthy for a lifetime.