People have a lot of good reasons to keep their family’s gums and teeth healthy. Their pearly-white smiles, being able to eat and chew food for good nutrition, as well as avoiding discomfort and toothaches are just some of the reasons why people take good care of their gums and teeth.
According to new studies, gum diseases like gingivitis can lead to other body complications, like a higher risk of getting heart disease. The good news is, there are ways to keep the enamel healthy and strong from childhood to adulthood, and here is how:
Start kids early
Despite tooth decay prevention efforts, one in every four kids develops signs of cavities before they can even step inside a classroom. At least 50% of children between 12 and 15 years old are experiencing tooth decay. Dental and oral care needs to start as soon as the kid’s first tooth appears, usually when they reach six months of age. The teeth can be cleaned using a damp and clean cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush. When kids reach the age of two, parents can let their kids try to brush their teeth by themselves – although it is imperative to supervise the children.
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Seal off trouble
Molars usually come in around age six. Thin protective coatings can be applied to the back teeth’s chewing surfaces to help prevent tooth decay or cavities in the fissures and pits. According to the CDC or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, protective sealants can significantly minimize caries. But only one in every three kids in the United States receives dental-protective sealants. People need to talk to a dental professional for some advice.
Use enough fluoride, but not too much
One of the most significant advancements in this industry, has been fluoride in dental care, which helps strengthen the enamel. A healthy enamel will have less chance of decay. Three out of four people in the country drink water that contains fluoride. If the water does not contain fluoride, ask your dentist the best way to apply fluoride to your teeth.
A lot of mouthwashes and toothpaste also contain fluoride. It needs to be used sparingly when it comes to kids. Parents can put a pea-sized dab on their kid’s toothbrush. Too much fluoride paste can cause white spots on the tooth.
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Brush at least twice a day and floss after every meal
Tooth decay or cavities and gum diseases like gingivitis remain one of the biggest oral problems in American families; this includes kids, adults, and older people. According to the American Dental Hygienists’ Association, three-fourths of young adults have bleeding gums. Along with the necessary advice, people need to remember:
Brushes need to be changed three to four times a year.
Young adults with corrective braces may need to use special brushes and other dental hygiene devices to brush their teeth. Talk to an orthodontist or dentist.
Older people with health problems like arthritis may have problems holding a brush or using floss. Some individuals find it a lot easier to use electronic brushes. Others simply put rubber grips or foam tubes over the handle of their toothbrushes to make it easier to grip.
Chew gum or rinse your mouth with clean water after each meal
In addition to flossing and brushing, rinsing your mouth with an antibacterial mouthwash can help prevent cavities and gum issues like gingivitis. Chewing a sugar-free bubble gum after each meal can also protect the mouth by increasing the flow of saliva in the mouth, which usually washes bad bacteria away, as well as neutralizing acid.
Do not smoke or use vape and smokeless tobacco
Tobacco-based products can stain teeth and increases the risk of oral cancer and gum diseases. If people use tobacco-based products like cigarettes or chewing gums with nicotine, consider quitting. Tell your kids not to start this addictive vice.
Be smart when it comes to foods or beverages you are consuming
At every age, a balanced and healthy diet is crucial to healthy gums and teeth. A well-balanced and nutritious diet of whole foods like grains, fruits, nuts, dairy products, and vegetables will provide all the necessary nutrients people need. Some experts believe that consuming Omega-3 fats found in fish may also help reduce inflammation. It can lower the risk of getting gum diseases like gingivitis.
Avoid food and beverages loaded with sugar
When bacteria found in our mouth break down the sugars found in foods and beverages, they produce acids that can destroy or erode our teeth’ enamel, and it can open the door to cavities formation of tooth decay. Sugary beverages like fruit drinks and soft drinks pose a threat since people tend to sip them. It can raise acid levels over time. Carbonated beverages may make this situation worse since it also increases the level of acidity in the mouth. Sticky candies are also another cause of tooth decay because they tend to linger on the tooth’s surface.