To say that you are only as healthy as your teeth and gums would not a great exaggeration. Because, studies have shown that there is a direct link between your oral health and overall physical well being.

In fact, your heart, kidney and even brain are at risk when your dental health is not good.

In worst case, there may be a danger of heart attack and stroke with people whose oral hygiene is poor. Keeping this in mind, it becomes essential to look after your teeth and gums as take a positive step towards staying healthy.

Here is a complete guide to healthy teeth and gums –

1. Follow Oral Hygiene Daily

Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, cleaning the tongue and rinsing the mouth, all this is essential to maintaining a better oral health.

If you skip any of these, there may be a risk of plaque build-up, food stuff getting stuck between the teeth and bacteria weakening the gums over time.

With proper brushing and flossing, you teeth and gums are kept away from the danger of plaque always. You can ask any dentist and he/she will recommend the same routine so that your teeth and gums can stay healthy.

2. Maintain Oral Care Etiquette

All your regular oral hygiene steps would go to waste if you did not care for maintaining oral care etiquette. For example, it’s important to use only a fluoride-containing toothpaste to provide strength to the enamel.

You must use only a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid harm to the gums. Dentists also recommend people to change their toothbrush after every three to fours months.

It’s also essential to use a mouthwash after each meal to wash away plaque and bacteria from the mouth. You are also advised to not brush immediately after eating or drinking something acidic else it might weaken the teeth over time.

3. Quit Smoking and Say No to Tobacco

If oral care is really a concern to you, quit smoking immediately. You must say no to tobacco in any form whether chewing or smoking.

Several studies have proved how tobacco can increase the risk of mouth cancer apart from staining or discoloring the tooth. Those who smoke have bad breath which can lead to tooth loss over time.

Worse still, the chemicals and additives used in tobacco products can weaken the teeth by hampering the flow of nutrients to them. So, be careful and stay away from tobacco and maintain better dental health.

4. Avoid Sugary and Acidic Foods or Beverages

Sugar is bad for your teeth and gums alike and the earlier you know the better. The consumption of sugary items means there will always be a risk of tooth decay.

And when your tooth faces decay, it leads to problems as serious as tooth loss. The same happens with acidic foods as they can weaken the enamel and make the teeth sensitive.

If possible, avoid tea, coffee, soda, cola, alcohol, fruit juices, sports drinks, candies, chocolates or anything that has sugar in dense form.

5. Eat a Balanced Diet

The food you eat will have a huge bearing on the health of your teeth and gums. You must stop consuming sugar and acidic foods and rather switch to a balanced diet.

Some of the great foods for your teeth and gums include cheese, leafy greens, almonds, apple, celery, carrots, green tea, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, plain yogurt, milk, etc.

You can drink plenty of water and it will be great for oral health. For more information, visit a top dental clinic and take steps to maintain dental health.