Good oral health is essential for everyone, but it’s necessary for men. Not only does proper oral care help keep your smile looking good, but it can also help protect your overall health.
In this blog post, we will discuss six ways men can take care of their oral health. Keep reading to learn more!
1. Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brushing your teeth is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain good oral health. It helps remove plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, which can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease, keep your breath fresh, and decrease the risk of tooth loss as you age.
Dental experts strongly recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day, especially in the morning since bacteria and plaque can build up in the evening.
When brushing your teeth, use fluoride toothpaste. The active ingredient protects your teeth against decay by making them more resistant to plaque and bacteria.
If you’re looking for toothpaste that will give your oral health an extra boost, consider using one that contains xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener found in small amounts in many fruits and vegetables. It has been shown to help prevent cavities and tooth decay and even reverse the early signs of plaque buildup.
2. Floss Daily
Pair toothbrushing with flossing. Flossing is an essential part of your oral hygiene routine because it can reach places that a toothbrush cannot get to.
If you don’t floss, plaque, food particles, and bacteria will get stuck between your teeth and gums, where they cause damage. Over time, this buildup can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
Fortunately, flossing is an easy task that takes about two minutes each day. Consider using a flossing tool or floss picks if you find it difficult to grip the dental floss with your fingers.
And don’t forget to floss your back teeth! They are often the most neglected and susceptible to plaque buildup and decay.
3. See Your Dentist for Regular Checkups and Cleanings
Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings is one of the best ways to maintain good oral health. Dentists can detect early signs of tooth decay and gum disease, which allows them to treat the problems before they become worse.
At each checkup, your dentist will perform a comprehensive exam of your mouth. This includes checking for cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other problems. They will also clean your teeth and remove any plaque or tartar buildup accumulated since your last visit.
It’s essential to see your dentist at least twice a year, but if you have a history of dental problems or are at high risk for developing cavities or gum disease, you may need to see your dentist more often.
4. Quit Smoking or Using Tobacco Products
Smoking and other tobacco use can have a devastating effect on your oral health. It increases the risk of developing gum disease, tooth loss, oral cancer, and other serious problems.
If you’re ready to quit smoking or using tobacco products, your dentist can help you find resources that will make it easier for you to kick this harmful habit. Smoking cessation resources include:
- Medications that can help you quit smoking
- Programs to help you quit smoking, including group therapy, individual counseling, and telephone hotlines
- Support groups in your community or online where you can get support from other people who are trying to quit too
Talk with your dentist about these resources and ask for recommendations that may be best for you.
5. Use a Mouthguard While Playing Sports
Protect your smile from injury while playing sports by wearing a mouthguard. Mouthguards provide a barrier between your teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue to protect against blows that can cause severe injuries like broken or knocked-out teeth and even concussions.
Mouthguards are also beneficial for athletes who wear braces as they help protect the braces from being damaged.
There are a few different types of mouthguards available, so it’s essential to find one that fits your needs and is comfortable to wear. Talk to your dentist about the best kind of mouthguard for you and how to properly fit it in your mouth.
6. Go Easy on Beer
Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks in the United States, with nearly 54 million gallons consumed every year. Unfortunately, it can have a negative impact on your oral health.
Beer and other types of alcohol can contain about 10 to 15 grams of sugar per pint. Sugar produces acids that attack teeth and contribute to cavities and tooth decay.
In addition, alcohol can also dry out your mouth, leading to a decrease in saliva production. Saliva is important because it helps wash away food particles and bacteria from the teeth and gums and neutralizes acids that cause tooth decay.
If you do drink beer or other alcoholic beverages, make sure to brush your teeth and floss as soon as possible after you finish drinking.
Most men avoid the dentist until they are in severe pain. However, oral health problems can be prevented with regular cleanings and checkups from your dentist.
If you haven’t visited a dentist recently or have questions about how to keep your mouth healthy, schedule an appointment today.
