How to Protect Our Dental Health?

Ideally, our teeth should last us a lifetime, as the health of the oral cavity fundamentally influences digestion and the experience of eating. Proper dental care is crucial not only for our health but also from an aesthetic perspective, as a beautiful smile boosts confidence. Losing our teeth is not only unpleasant but often requires costly solutions, such as dentures, which can be uncomfortable in many cases.

To preserve the integrity of our teeth, regular and thorough dental care is essential. In addition to brushing twice a day, it is advisable to clean our teeth after every main meal to remove deposits and food remnants. Applying the correct technique is particularly important, as this is the only way to achieve the desired results.

In addition to the basic steps of brushing, several other factors must be considered to ensure our oral hygiene is as good as possible.

The Right Dental Care Techniques

Basic dental care does not stop at brushing once or twice a day. During brushing, it is important to ensure that we perform this activity for at least three minutes. To brush effectively, first rinse our mouth to get rid of a significant amount of food remnants. When using the toothbrush and toothpaste, start from the back, left molar, then move along each row of teeth with circular motions.

It is advisable to clean 2-3 teeth at a time and not to forget the inner surfaces of the teeth and the chewing surfaces. Repeat this process about ten times, then rinse our mouth thoroughly with clean water. Using dental floss is also essential, as food particles stuck between teeth are difficult to remove by brushing and can form plaque, leading to tooth decay.

Cleaning the mucous membranes of the oral cavity is also important, as bacteria often settle here. Special toothbrushes are available that have been developed for cleaning the oral cavity and tongue. For proper oral care, it is worth heeding our dentist’s advice, as there can be differences among various toothpaste brands. Fluoride-containing toothpastes protect the teeth, but for those avoiding fluoride, alternative solutions are available.

Oral Hygiene Products

During dental care, the role of the toothbrush and toothpaste is not the only important factor, as various supplementary products also play a significant role. Dental floss is crucial for oral hygiene, as it helps remove those small food particles that get stuck between the teeth. These deposits are often not visible to the naked eye but can turn into plaque over time, leading to the deterioration of the teeth.

Bacteria in the oral cavity can cause bad breath and contribute to the development of tooth decay and periodontal disease. Therefore, we should not forget to clean the mucous membranes of the oral cavity as well. Using special toothbrushes and mouthwashes available at pharmacies can help remove bacteria.

Toothpastes recommended by dentists often have a gentler effect but contain higher fluoride levels, providing protection for the teeth. It is advisable to visit our dentist at least twice a year, as regular check-ups can help detect tooth decay early, reducing the duration and discomfort of treatments.

The Most Common Dental Care Myths

There are many myths regarding dental care that unfortunately can have serious consequences. For example, many believe that vigorous scrubbing makes brushing more effective, but on the contrary, this can damage the tooth enamel. Additionally, the inheritance of poor teeth is a widespread myth, as improper oral hygiene habits play a much larger role in dental health.

Many also think that it is mandatory to brush after every meal, whereas it is sufficient to do so after at least the main meals. Baby teeth should not be neglected either, as children establish their brushing habits, and decayed baby teeth can also harm permanent teeth. Parents should give sweets to children in moderation and teach them proper dental care.

If brushing is not possible, sugar-free gum can provide a temporary solution. To maintain healthy oral hygiene, it is important to consciously manage our habits related to our teeth, as prevention is far more effective for long-term health than treatment.