How to Protect and Maintain Your Teeth
Have you ever thought about how your teeth are the first thing people see when they look at your face? With all of the information out there on what to eat, drink, and do for our health, it’s easy to forget that keeping up with oral hygiene can make a huge difference in how healthy we feel.
The first reason goes back to the fact that people see your teeth when they look at you! If you have bad breath, stained or missing teeth, it can make a negative impression on those around you. This includes potential employers and coworkers – not exactly people we want judging us before giving us opportunities for advancement or employment! On top of making an unfavorable initial impression, dental problems like tooth decay and cavities are extremely painful to deal with. To avoid these types of issues, check out this dental supplement, and consider scheduling regular appointments with your dentist every six months (more often if recommended) so that he/she can check for any developing problems early enough to treat them effectively.
You should also do everything in your power to take good care of your teeth and gums. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss once daily (especially if you have braces or other orthodontic appliances), drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep saliva flowing, avoid sugary foods that can lead to cavities, and limit snacking between meals on crunchy foods like potato chips that can crack your teeth.
In addition to these steps for dental hygiene in general, there are some additional things you can do when caring for your mouth while pregnant. Since hormonal changes during pregnancy may make it easier for bacteria in the mouth to cause gum disease, be sure not only to brush but also scrape both sides of your tongue gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove bacteria. You should also avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol since it can be a fatal toxin, and instead use an antibacterial fluoride rinse if you feel like you need extra protection against the growth of plaque or bacterial infections.
If you’re pregnant, then oral care is especially important! Not only do your teeth matter to those around you, but they are incredibly important for yourself as well. By taking good care of them now – including avoiding things like smoking tobacco products which damage both gums and teeth over time – we will help ensure not just a healthy pregnancy but also a healthier baby! As always, consult with your doctor before making any changes during pregnancy.