Here we are on part four of our 5 part series on the 15 steps to good oral health. Hopefully, you have incorporated these each week and are now seeing a big difference in your smile! Last week, we talked about how sugary foods can influence your oral health. This week, we want to talk about a few things that can affect the inside of your mouth. Here are the next steps to good oral health.
10. Avoid tobacco products for good oral health
Cigarettes or smokeless tobacco both contain a ton of chemicals that is detrimental to your oral health. Cigarettes contain over 4000+ chemicals. The smoke you inhale and exhale can reduce the blood flow to your gums. Cigarettes also cause bad breath, stained teeth, and dull your sense of taste and smell. Smokeless tobacco causes tooth decay and gum disease. Both can lead to oral cancer. If you smoke or use smokeless tobacco, now is the time to stop.
11. For good oral health, invest in a good mouth wash
Mouth wash is good for your oral health because it is a powerful agent that can not only freshen your breath, but it can reach areas you might have missed while brushing and help ward off gum disease! Many dentists prefer you use a mouth wash that contains fluoride. If you are worried about bad breath or gum disease, there are mouthwashes out there that are antibacterial. Antibacterial rinses help fight plaque and gingivitis. Read the ingredients before choosing a mouth wash that is right for you.
12. Don’t ignore any pains in your mouth if you want good oral health
Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. If you feel pain in your mouth, it is best to get an appointment to get it looked at. A lot of times, people will take some over-the-counter pain medicine and avoid the issue altogether. Well, that is not always the best idea when it comes to your oral health. By avoiding the issue, you can end up causing more damage to your tooth or gums. It is always best to get it looked at.
If you have any concerns about your mouth or want to ask about what you can do to improve your oral health, schedule an appointment with top dentist in Houston Dr. Viet Tran at Smiles of Memorial today!