National Oral Health Month (April) is here. It’s an important reminder of the importance oral health has to our overall health and well-being.
Too often our teeth, gums and soft tissues are overlooked which can lead to unnecessary discomfort and pain. The positive news is that maintaining good oral health is simple and easy.
With a few consistent habits most oral health complications can be avoided and even corrected. These habits include:
Brushing your teeth twice a day with either a manual or electric toothbrush. This will help reduce cavities forming on the surfaces of your teeth;
Cleaning between your teeth at least once a day with floss or other interdental devices. This will help reduce cavities forming between your teeth and improve periodontal health;
Using a saltwater or antibacterial mouth rinse once a day. This will help in reducing oral inflammation;
Improving healthy food choices. Reducing the amount of sugar consumed will reduce the chances of new cavities forming;
Minimizing alcohol and tobacco use. This has a major impact at reducing oral diseases, including oral cancer;
Seeing a dentist and hygienist at least once a year. This allows dental professionals to perform an oral exam ensuring your teeth, gums and soft tissues are healthy;
The key to good oral health is consistency. By brushing and flossing your teeth every day, making good dietary/lifestyle choices and seeing dental professionals every year, we can drastically improve our patients oral health and prevent the issues we so often see.
We want all of our patients to be happy and healthy, and taking proper care of our oral health is an excellent place to start.
Dr. Christopher Becir is based in Comox. For more information, go to arbordentalcomox.com.
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