We always just assume our teeth will be there forever. Having healthy gums and teeth might take a little more effort than just brushing your teeth once or twice a day. Strong, healthy, functional teeth should never be taken for granted, especially as you get older. Common dental complaints can include; dry mouth, sensitivity to temperatures and textures, as well as painful gums. Below are 9 easy dental care tips to help keep your mouth healthy.
There are tons of reports out there about how baby boomers are concerned about not being able to afford the increasing cost of dental insurance. Interestingly, according to some surveys, most Americans over 45 understand that good oral care can positively affect many aspects of their overall health. However, a large percentage of Americans surveyed also said that they have medical coverage, but only half stated that they are covered by dental insurance.
Proper dental care is essential for good, positive health throughout your life, no matter what your age might be.
Here are 9 easy dental care tips that will bring a smile to your face:
1. Although it seems like a “duh” statement, avoiding a lot of sugary foods is always helpful to ensure good dental health. Candy and other foods high in sugar (especially the sticky kinds) will quickly convert to acids inside your mouth and will cause that harmful decay you’re working so hard to avoid
2. Diets that are lacking in vitamin C can cause severe dental problems, including loose teeth and bleeding gums. Try eating some salads with citrus fruits, such as orange or grapefruit sections. This will help to boost your body’s ability to fight those destructive symptoms, while also fighting plaque. Be sure to buffer this though by including them as part of a meal, because the acidity content could potentially erode tooth enamel if not controlled properly.
3. If the possibility of flossing during the day is not an option, opt for Mother Nature’s Toothbrush. Hard, crunchy foods, such as carrots and apples, can clean your teeth naturally.
4. Your teeth are made up of calcium, so you can imagine how important it is to maintain the amount you take in. Eating foods like yogurt, cheese, and soybeans will help keep your teeth strong. For breakfast, try having yogurt topped with a crunchy whole grain cereal and fresh fruit to start your day off right.
5. The sun can be rejuvenating as well as healthy for you. Vitamin D, most of which we get from the sun’s rays, helps us absorb the calcium in our body. This is just another benefit to getting outdoors and exercising. If you don’t know what your vitamin D level is and you are interested in knowing, then you can find out with a simple blood test.
6. See your dentist every 6 months! Your teeth may not look dirty from the outside, but bacteria and plaque lurk in places you cannot see in the mirror.
7. Make sure you are brushing and flossing twice a day…Every Day! Flossing should be part of your morning routine, not to mention that both brushing and flossing after dinner could help you lose weight by discouraging bedtime snacking.
8. Saliva is one of our body’s strongest battling bacteria. Tart and sour foods that promote saliva production such as lemons, limes, cranberries, and cherries can help your body to fight the bacteria in your mouth. Drinking water throughout the day is another way to produce saliva, clear bacteria, and cleanse your oral cavity. Foods that have a high water content can also help to ward off the process of decay. In other words…Eat your fruits and veggies!
9. Rinse out your mouth with your choice of mouthwash, or at least water, after every meal. This practice will help kill the germs residing in your mouth. Not to mention prevent others from knowing you had onions on your sandwich at lunch.
A healthy smile wouldn’t be the same without shiny teeth to lend their support. Take care of it with these simple, easy tips.
” A smile speaks every language…what story do you want to tell.”
