Ways to Increase Your Dental Health

As we’re currently living in societies with a high rate of overweight, obese or those being diagnosed with health complications such as heart disease, dental health can also be neglected. It is common for people to have fillings, braces and other dental work, however, it is also possible for us to maintain good dental hygiene and look after our mouths and teeth, preventing the need to have teeth removed or a filling put in. The table below will look at a number of natural ways and methods you can use at home in order to increase your dental hygiene and limit those dentist or orthodontist bills.

Eating Fresh, Unprocessed Foods – Processed foods are packed full of preservatives, chemicals and sugars. All of these substances can contribute to tooth decay if consumed regularly. The natural sugars found in fresh foods are in lower concentrations and simpler molecular forms that the body can easily handle and deal with. Many fresh foods will also contain various minerals and nutrients, such as calcium, which are essential for healthy teeth. Processed foods may have been heated to high temperatures, destroying their natural nutrient content.

Avoid foods containing environmental chemicals or pesticides – Opt for organic foods because chemical substances can affect the enamel on the teeth, resulting in faster tooth decay and a decrease in the health of your mouth. Once the enamel is lost from the teeth, they can be easily worn and rotted.

Choose sweets with healthier sugars – Sugar free or xylitol containing gums and sweets are proven to benefit dental health and foods containing them are often approved by dental societies. Ordinary sweets or chewing gums may contain sorbitol which has a more detrimental effect on the teeth.

Brush your teeth – Brush your teeth at least twice a day, with a natural or plant-based toothpaste. Chemical toothpaste may not be as beneficial as advertised and studies have shown that natural toothpastes are actually more beneficial and aid the mouth in the maintenance of good dental hygiene and health. When you brush your teeth you should be gentle yet thorough and also pay attention to your gums and tongue. Brushing after meals and before bed are the most important times as this will limit the time that sugars have to eat away at your teeth.

Increase your nutrient and vitamin intake – Increasing your consumption of food and drink high in calcium (dairy products, dairy alternatives, green leafy vegetables) can encourage the growth and development of strong and healthy teeth. Having a high vitamin D intake is also essential for the absorption of calcium from foods.

As you can see, maintaining good dental hygiene doesn’t mean that you have to give up on sugar or your favourite gum. It just means that you should be more conscientious of your dental health and be proactive in ensuring that your teeth and gums are at their best. You only have one set of adult teeth – look after them!