Poor oral health can have a big impact on a person’s quality of life. Most people know that exercising and the right diet are important to staying healthy. A healthy mouth is part of a healthy body. According to the Canadian Dental Association, there are 5 steps to a healthy mouth:
Keep your mouth clean
- use a soft bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
- Wait at least 20-30 minutes after eating before brushing your teeth
- Floss every day
- Eat a well balanced diet
- Limit foods and beverages containing sugars and carbohydrates
- Look for oral care products with the Canadian Dental Association seal
Check your mouth regularly
- Look for signs of gum disease: red, shiny, puffy sore or sensitive gums, bleeding when you brush or floss, or bad breath that won’t go away
- Look for signs of oral cancer: Bleeding or open sores that don’t heal. White or red patches. Numbness or tingling. Small lumps and thickening anywhere on the inside of your mouth.
Eat well
- Good nutrition helps build strong teeth and gums
- Eat mouthhealthy snacks like cheese, nuts, vegetables, and non-acidic fruit
See your dentist regularly
- 48% of Canadians who haven’t seen a dentist in the past year have gum disease.
- Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are the best way to prevent and detect problems before they get worse
Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
- Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause oral cancer, heart disease, gum disease, and a variety of other cancers
- It also discolours your teeth
If you have any questions about your oral health you can call us at (647) 794-1108 to help.
5 Steps to a Healthy Mouth