I brush my teeth regularly, isn't that enough? Holistically taking care of your oral health requires a bit of a checklist. Yes, brushing and flossing are important, but what are some other methods of oral health care? Proper dental prevention and regular check-ups are your best bet for a healthier, pain-free, beautiful smile.

Here are 5 ways to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental health problems:

1- Invest In an Electric Toothbrush

Electric toothbrushes are a beneficial alternative to manual toothbrushes. They offer a deeper clean and help prevent oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum disease. Most electric toothbrushes come with replaceable brush heads too. Overall, electric toothbrushes are durable and convenient for twice-a-day brushing. Oral-B and Philips are some of the best electric toothbrush brands out in the market.

Tips For Using an Electric Toothbrush:

• Press lightly when brushing - you don't need to put too much pressure with an electric toothbrush.
• Clean brush heads by soaking them in mouthwash to avoid bacteria building up.
• Replace the brush heads regularly. A good way to gauge this is to make sure the bristles are in good shape and have no sign of discoloration.
• Talk to us about any questions or concerns you may have concerning electric toothbrushes. We’ll provide you with all the information and recommendations you need!

2- Floss!

Brushing your teeth is important, but flossing is the cherry on top of a clean mouth.

You shouldn't miss this step because flossing helps remove any extra debris that a toothbrush can't reach. Floss daily, with a proper technique, and you will reduce your chances for cavities, gum disease and will improve your oral health overall.

There are various flossing products out there. If traditional floss is difficult for you to use, consider purchasing floss picks. They come in packs and allow easier usability.

3- Prioritize Eating Healthy

Food is your body’s fuel. Your dental health is influenced by your overall physical health and wellness, so it's important to take care of your whole body. For instance, untreated gum disease is directly linked to heart disease, diabetes, and many other chronic health issues. Speaking and visiting your dentist regularly can help with preventing health problems as well as identifying the early stages of oral cancers and other issues through non-invasive preventive screenings during your dental exams.

Your choices of food and beverages play a large role in your dental health and in preventing health issues.

Foods and drinks to avoid:

• Sugary - Foods and drinks that are high in sugar, especially fruit juices are problematic for your teeth and gums.
• Acidic - Beverages that are high in acidity like soda and coffee can have adverse effects such as demineralization and tooth decay. They also stain your teeth.
• Sticky - Dried fruits like raisins or prunes are perceived as healthy, but these sugary snacks can get stuck and damage your teeth. It’s fine if you have them once in a while, but make sure you floss after.

Foods and drinks to indulge:

• Leafy greens - spinach, broccoli, kale
• High-fibre fruits and veggies
• Nuts like almonds and legumes
• Unsweetened coffee and tea
• Gluten-free, sugar-free snacks

4- Rinse Regularly

Rinsing your mouth with fresh water can be more beneficial than brushing your teeth after every meal. When consuming foods or beverages with high acidity, it weakens the tooth enamel. Brushing right after can be detrimental, as the tooth is weakened after being in contact with high acidity food/drinks. Therefore, gently rinsing your mouth with water is a safer alternative. In addition, alcohol-free mouthwash freshens your breath. It is less harsh than mouthwashes that contain alcohol which can lead to dry mouth and gum disease.

5- Take a Proactive Approach to Treatment

A proactive approach will help prevent oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease and keep your body healthy long-term. Don't wait to treat health issues when they are intolerable, especially when it comes to aches, pains, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Listen to your Body!

Remember to take the warning signs of dental health problems seriously. Seek help if you're suffering from:

• Headaches when waking up
• Poor sleep
• Red, bleeding, swollen, or irritated gums
• Pain when biting or chewing
• Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
• Chronic bad breath

Even if these symptoms seem minor in the beginning, they may lead to serious health issues in the future. Remember to schedule dental check-ups regularly! Prevention is generally an easier process than treatment. For instance, cavities that are caught early will have more treatment options and will be a less-invasive approach. Proactivity is key!