World Oral Health Day is observed annually on March 20th, and is the leading global awareness movement on oral health. The theme for 2019 is ‘Act on Mouth Health,’ where the focus is on preventing oral diseases and protecting overall health by:
- Inspiring people to care of their oral health
- Promoting self-care
- Routine dental check-ups
- Risk factors management
The Oral Health Foundation has prepared a list of 5 key tips to observe on the World Oral Health Day 2019. You should follow them to ensure a healthier and happier mouth.
1. Practice Interdental Brushing
A majority of people only brush their teeth as part of their daily oral hygiene routine. However, effective removal and disruption of plaque within the oral cavity is not achieved by simply brushing. Clean in between your teeth with the help of interdental brushes, dental floss, and water or air flossers. Research shows that interdental brushing and flossing help to get rid of the plaque-forming bacteria and food fragments stuck between our teeth, resulting in an overall healthier mouth.
2. Brushing with Fluoride Toothpaste
Dentists recommend brushing your teeth regularly for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, both during the daytime and at night to maintain sound oral health. Regular brushing is vital for removing plaque because plaque buildup over time can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
3. Not Rinsing After Using Fluoride
You should spit out the fluoride toothpaste after brushing your teeth, but avoid rinsing your mouth to prevent washing away the fluoride. Skipping rinsing with water will ensure that the fluoride remains on your teeth for long. The more fluoride concentration in your mouth after brushing, the less prone you are to getting cavities.
4. Following the Right Diet
Eating sugary foods and fizzy drinks can damage your teeth and make them susceptible to erosion and decay. It is important to refrain from consuming these snacks because it will cause frequent acid attacks on your teeth. Instead, consider snacking on vegetables or savory snacks like nuts or cheese that are better options.
[Also Read: 5 Tips for Choosing a Family Dentist That Your Family Loves]
5. Not Skipping Dental Checkups
It’s essential to maintain regular visits to your dentist to maintain a healthy mouth and prevent oral diseases. Dental appointments shouldn’t only be considered when you need to address a dental problem because preventative care is always better.
Many studies have associated poor oral health to a variety of health problems like diabetes, strokes, and dementia. Also, ‘Act on Mouth Health’ is the message for this year’s World Oral Health Day, so you should proactively focus on maintaining proper oral health of your family.
