Bad oral hygiene can trigger much more than bad breath or gum diseases. Diabetes? Heart attack?

Benefits of oral hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean and healthy can even lower the risk of developing systemic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions (Image: Canva)

Nobody likes a stinky breath or a smile flashing yellowed teeth. But bad oral health does more damage than just embarrassing you. Our teeth and gums play a crucial role in our overall well-being and healthy lifestyle, and neglecting them can lead to serious health risks.

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Maintaining good oral hygiene not only keeps your teeth and gums healthy but also prevents bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral problems. Neglecting proper dental care can lead to more severe issues such as infections that may require surgery or cause other health complications.

Keeping your mouth clean and healthy can even lower the risk of developing systemic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. Proper dental care involves daily routines such as brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist.

Here’s a list of best practices for keeping good dental health and hygiene so that you can have a beautiful smile and healthy teeth for years to come:

Brush twice a day: Brushing your teeth thoroughly for two minutes, twice a day should be an integral part of your daily dental care routine. Use gentle, circular motions to clean the front, back, and chewing surfaces of your teeth. Also, always pick a fluoride toothpaste that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevents tooth decay.

Choose the right toothbrush: Opt for a soft-bristle toothbrush that can reach all areas of your mouth comfortably. Make sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if bristles become frayed.

Floss once a day: Flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Select a flossing product that suits your preference, such as waxed or unwaxed floss, dental tape, or floss picks. Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it around each tooth in a C-shape. Move the floss up and down to remove plaque and debris. Ensure you reach all areas, including the back teeth, and don't forget to floss behind your last tooth.

Be consistent with using a mouthwash: Using an alcohol-free mouthwash as part of your oral care routine provides additional benefits, such as freshening your breath and reducing bacteria. Rinse your mouth with a mouthwash after you are done brushing and flossing. Swish it around your mouth for the recommended time before spitting it out.

Maintain a balanced, healthy diet: A balanced diet with mindful choices plays a significant role in maintaining good oral health. Frequent consumption of sugary and acidic foods can lead to tooth decay and erosion. Limit your intake of sugary snacks, carbonated drinks, and acidic fruits, and include calcium-rich foods (dairy products and leafy greens), crunchy vegetables like celery and carrots, and citrus fruits with vitamin-C instead.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is not only beneficial for overall health but also promotes salivation, which helps wash away food particles and neutralise acids.

Go for regular dental check-ups: In addition to maintaining a diligent oral care routine, regular dental check-ups are vital for preserving your oral health. They allow your dentist to identify any potential issues early on, preventing them from progressing into more serious problems. Dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup, which cannot be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing alone.