We spend so much of our lives worrying about the health of our body and mind, that sometimes we forget about one very important part, our teeth. Poor oral health and dental hygiene can lead to a whole wealth of problems. Not least of all, missing teeth. If you want to keep those pearly whites as healthy as possible, then you need to read through this ultimate guide.

Day to Day Care

We get taught from a very young age that we should brush our teeth twice a day. However, not everyone knows exactly how or for what length of time. Ideally, you should be using a fluoride toothpaste and an electric toothbrush if you want to see the best results. Teeth should be brushed once in the morning and once in the evening. Some people also brush their teeth at lunchtime. Many oral health experts will also recommend that you floss your teeth after eating too. This can prevent a buildup of plaque. Flossing can also prevent gum disease and bad breath. It’s a win-win situation! Finally, you may also want to use mouthwash on a regular basis. This is another handy trick that can help stop gum disease and curb bad breath.

Check-Ups

Again, something we get taught from a young age is to get a check-up once every six months. However, depending on your general oral health it could be more or less. A good dentist will be able to let you know how often you should have check-ups. If you generally have bad oral health, then it could be every three months. Those who rarely see any problems may not have to go more than once a year. If you ever experience any pain or strange symptoms, then you should get checked out sooner rather than later.

Common Oral Health Problems

It’s a good idea to make a note of the most common problems that can happen to your mouth, teeth and gums. You’ll then be better prepared if you start to experience any symptoms. Many common oral health issues can be solved with over the counter medications. However, it may be that you need to see your dentist for more serious conditions. Here are some signs and symptoms to keep an eye out for:

• Bleeding Gums – This is generally a sign of gum disease. You can buy medicated mouth washes that can help ease the issue. If your gums continue to bleed then you should see a professional for advice.
• Teeth Discoloration – This can happen for a variety of reasons, but it’s usually due to a lack of brushing. Some dental hygienists may be able to scrape, clean or bleach your teeth if it’s a problem.
• Bad Breath – This is another condition which may simply be down to poor dental hygiene. If brushing, flossing and mouthwash doesn’t make any difference it could be a sign of something more serious.
• Toothache – Depending on where the pain is located, this could be something that clears up itself. Or, it may need treatment. If you find that over the counter painkillers don’t dull the pain then you could need to see a dentist. If the pain is located at the very back of your mouth then it’s likely to be wisdom teeth coming through.

You’re now fully equipped with the knowledge to keep your oral health in tip top condition. Some of these things may seem like common sense, but it’s always good to have a refresher. Especially if you want to keep those pearly whites looking fabulous.