I wish I had known this sooner, but taking care of your teeth is truly a game-changer in the long run. As we age, maintaining good oral health becomes more crucial than ever. Once you hit 40, your teeth and gums require a bit more attention to stay healthy and strong.
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Here are five simple but effective steps that have really worked for me. I’ve tried everything from using mouthwash to hard toothbrushes, but nothing seemed to help. In fact, these methods actually made my teeth weaker and unhealthy. After much trial and error, I found a routine that truly works. Here are the simple steps I follow daily for my oral health:
1. Maintain a Consistent Oral Hygiene for Your Teeth
Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a gentle toothpaste for you. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your enamel and irritating your gums.
P.S. I always make sure to brush my teeth before drinking coffee or eating breakfast. This routine helps maintain oral hygiene by reducing the buildup of bacteria and food particles in my mouth.
Flossing: Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach. This helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay. You can also use a inter-dental floss for those hard to reach areas or usually when I’m in a rush. lol
Water Flosser: A water flosser, is a great addition to your oral hygiene routine. It uses a stream of water to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line. I use a water pick daily to ensure a thorough clean, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Focus on Gum Health
Maintaining gum health becomes increasingly important as we age. It’s crucial to watch for signs of gum disease such as bleeding, swelling, or receding gums. Consistently practicing good oral hygiene is key, and incorporating a simple warm water salt rinse can be beneficial in reducing plaque and supporting gum health.
A salt water rinse acts as a natural disinfectant, helping to reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth. I find that using this rinse once a day provides a gentle yet effective clean, leaving my gums feeling refreshed and promoting overall oral hygiene. It’s a straightforward addition to my routine that supports healthy gums and contributes to maintaining a confident smile for years to come.
4. Try Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient practice that involves swishing oil (like coconut oil) in your mouth for about 5-10 minutes. This practice helps remove toxins and bacteria from your mouth. I incorporate oil pulling into my daily routine before drinking water or eating. I started this in 2019, and I’ve never felt cleaner than just by brushing my teeth. It leaves my mouth feeling fresh and my gums healthier.
Disclosure: I only recommend products that I would use myself. All opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links, and I may earn a small commission at no extra cost.
Here are some of my actual oral hygiene must-haves:
- Curaprox CS 5460 Extra-Soft Toothbrushes for Adults
In addition to their cute color combinations, this toothbrush is also dentist-recommended for gently fighting plaque and stains. With densely packed bristles, it provides effective yet gentle cleaning.
- Arm & Hammer Toothpaste
This powerful formula strengthens and brightens teeth!
Simply swirl a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth first thing in the morning and swish it around making sure you get those in between your teeth.
P.S. Do not accidentally drink.
Bonus Tip: Regular Dental Check-Ups
Even with the best at-home care, regular dental check-ups are vital. I visit my dentist twice a year for cleanings and check-ups to catch any potential issues early and ensure my teeth and gums stay healthy.
Let me know your oral hygiene routine!