Most people think that brushing twice a day and flossing before bed is enough to have good-looking and healthy teeth for a lifetime. However, the Hawaiian diet you have may require extra care. While brushing and flossing are the main steps, you can incorporate additional hygiene steps to ensure you do not have to spend thousands of dollars at the dentist’s.
Read this blog to find out little hacks that will save you money in the long run. Meanwhile, if you are suffering from a dental issue, do not hesitate to talk to a dentist in Honolulu, HI, today.
Four oral hygiene hacks for a healthy smile.
- Get a tongue scraper.
A simple instrument for cleaning the tongue’s surface is a tongue scraper. Bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth can be caused by bacteria that build up on the tongue.
Also, the scraper helps you maintain the proper acidity balance in your mouth, which is necessary for healthy gums and teeth. It also controls the growth of microorganisms.
If you do not want to spend your money on a tongue scraper, you can also brush your tongue with a normal toothbrush. However, this hack is less effective, especially if you have a gag reflex.
- Rinse your mouth immediately after a meal.
Oral bacteria break down food particles that stay in the mouth into acids, which is the main cause of gum disease and cavities. Rinsing with water right away after eating or drinking can help in getting rid of food particles and stop bacteria from multiplying.
For maximum efficiency, rinse your mouth three times. Make sure to swish thoroughly so that it reaches all areas around your mouth.
- Avoid sugary and acidic meals.
Sugar is not healthy for your teeth. If you can not avoid eating sugary meals, start with limiting the intake. Drinks such as tea, wine, or coffee can cause your teeth to stain and promote cavities. Therefore, make sure to add healthy food items to your diet, such as nuts, vegetables, and fruits. These items will make your teeth healthy and shiny.
- Brush with baking soda.
You can also use baking soda to brush your teeth. It is also much less expensive than toothpaste. Baking soda is effective in making your teeth white and removing stains. Many brands have, therefore, started incorporating baking soda in their toothpaste formulas.
However, brushing your teeth with baking soda can be quite messy. It also lacks fluoride, which is necessary for good dental health. You should not brush your teeth with baking soda every day. You can just incorporate it into your daily routine and use it once or twice a week.
You can revolutionize your oral healthcare regime with these simple hacks and gain a radiant smile. For more personal advice, visit a dentist today!