Tips for Oral Health

Doctors and researchers have found a strong correlation between oral health and overall well-being. Not only do your teeth, tongue, and gums help you eat, drink, and talk, but they also provide a gateway to the rest of your body. Therefore, it is key to keep your mouth healthy and clean by practicing good oral hygiene.
First, every time you eat, debris from your food can collect on your teeth to form a layer of scum called plaque. Plaque is thick with bacteria that can eat into your teeth to form cavities. To help prevent plaque build-up, dentists recommend that you brush your teeth with an American Dental Association-approved toothbrush and toothpaste at least twice a day. You should use circular motions, which researchers have found is the most effective way to remove plaque.
Next, you should also floss at least once per day. Only flossing can remove the deep, hard-to-reach plaque that becomes trapped between your teeth. In fact, dentists say that flossing is even more important than brushing because bacteria trapped in the inner recesses between your teeth can eat through your gums and into your bloodstream. This weakens your immune system and puts you at risk for other health problems such as heart disease.
Additionally, you can also take preventative steps to protect your teeth. Make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride, a mineral that strengthens the enamel of your teeth. Your enamel is the outer layer of your teeth, so it is your first line of defense against cavities. You can also get a fluoride gel or mouth rinse to give you a higher dose of this treatment.
Lastly, regular checkups to the dentist and oral hygienist are important. They can help you clean deep, stubborn plaque deposits, as well as recognize and take care of cavities. A dentist can also show you proper brushing and flossing techniques to make the most of your oral hygiene efforts.
However, visits to the dentist can be expensive. Fortunately, health and dental insurance can help. To discuss the best health and dental insurance plans for your needs, contact a California insurance agent from Catherine Michaels Insurance Services today.