• First of all, we must make it a habit to brush our teeth in the morning and before going to bed at night. Brushing before sleep is especially important because at night saliva production decreases, increasing the likelihood of tooth decay.
• You should brush at least twice a day and a maximum of three times. Excessive brushing may damage the tooth surfaces or gums.
• Dental floss should become a part of your daily routine because it cleans the areas where the toothbrush cannot reach. It should be used once or twice a week; too frequent use may cause gum recession in some areas.
• We should also brush our tongue to remove bacteria accumulated on the surface and prevent bad breath. It can be added to the toothbrushing routine.
• We should increase water consumption; it cleans the mouth, increases saliva production, and neutralizes acids. Drinking at least 2 liters of water a day is beneficial for the whole body.
• We should consume more fibrous foods such as apples and carrots and reduce sugary foods and carbonated drinks. Tobacco products such as cigarettes also harm the teeth and gums; minimal or no consumption is recommended.
• We should use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean effectively without damaging the gums. Hard brushes can harm both gums and teeth (may be used in special cases on a dentist’s recommendation).
• We should brush for at least 2 minutes, without rushing, using circular motions from bottom to top.
• Mouthwash should become part of our routine; it prevents plaque formation and provides fresh breath. It should be added to the night brushing routine.
• Finally, we should visit our dentist twice a year for regular check-ups.
Oral health is essential for overall body health. We must care for our dental health as much as we care for our body. Everything we eat and drink affects our teeth. Since everything enters the body through the mouth, the healthier the mouth is, the healthier the body will be. We should not neglect adding brushing, flossing, and mouthwash to our daily routine.
