A guide on the dos and don’ts of an oral and dental hygiene routine

In the COVID-19 era, where people are taking great measures to be fit and increase their immunity, health is a top priority. Even with all this, they often forget how crucial it is to maintain oral health. Being ignorant about dental and oral needs can, later on, lead to effects that may be hard to treat.

If you think just brushing your teeth is the first and last thing one may have to do to maintain oral health, then you are wrong. Oral care is a regular process that takes into account many habits and factors that we choose to follow.

Here are a few dos and don’ts that need to be kept in mind

DOS:

1. Brush your teeth correctly

The simple task of brushing may cause harm if done carelessly. Did you know that there is a step-by-step guideline outlined by organizations like the American Dental Association that is the correct way to go about brushing your teeth?

Watch any of these videos or read any of their articles to find out more and correct any mistakes that you may be doing.

2. Use tools and products that maintain oral hygiene

Include products in your oral health routine like mouthwash, good-quality fluoride toothpaste, floss, etc. You may alternatively buy an oral care kit that may come in handy when you want to have all products in one place.

3. Use the above only when you know the proper way

Be informed about all the pros and cons. Consult a doctor regularly.

DONTS:

1. Use harsh products loaded with chemicals

You can go wrong even with a basic product such as toothpaste. The variants that have recently flooded the toothpaste markets do not seem to stop anywhere down the line. Fluoride toothpaste, fluoride-free toothpaste, cavity prevention toothpaste, toothpaste for sensitive teeth, natural toothpaste, and the list goes on. Find your best fit and ensure that the ingredients are safe as opposed to what the advertisements say

A mouth rinse for bad breath is a good step in your oral routine. However, harmful chemicals should be spotted and avoided

2. Late-night snacking

Late-night cravings are highly problematic in many ways. But for your teeth, they can come in the form of dental decay. Eating starchy or sugary food at night is a big no. Especially when you do not brush your teeth before sleeping.

If you continue your late-night snacking, then healthy teeth would be hard to achieve.

3. Ignore any signs of abnormalities

If you spot any strange coatings, colors, etc. in your oral area, then keep observing and if you experience any sensation or feeling like burning, pain or swollen gums, etc. then immediately contact a dentist.

Do not ignore any signs or abnormal sightings in the hope that they would get well on their own. Most importantly, never try to assume anything on your own.

If you have been ignoring these steps then it is never too late. Now is the time to start initiating small changes and developing positive habits. These small actions done with consistency go a long way and are major contributors to oral care.