Having a healthy smile and teeth is one of the keys to self-confidence. it's not enough to just brush your teeth after meals and see the dentist regularly. In addition to these two ways, there are several easy things you can do to maintain oral health.

Daily habits to maintain oral health

Brushing your teeth twice a day after meals is a good way to clean your teeth. But it turns out there are simple things you can do to take care of your teeth. If these become positive habits that are done daily, then your teeth and mouth will become healthier. Reporting from Medical News Today, here are some good habits for oral health:

1. ​​Avoid brushing your teeth too hard and in a hurry

Many people are unaware that numerous individuals unknowingly brush their teeth incorrectly. In order to remove food particles, many people brush too vigorously, which can lead to thinning of the tooth enamel and heightened tooth sensitivity, as well as gum erosion.

To ensure proper brushing technique, it's recommended to move the toothbrush in a circular motion, starting from the back and working toward the front while brushing towards the gums. This comprehensive brushing routine should ideally last for 2–3 minutes. Therefore, it's essential to brush slowly and avoid rushing through the process.

2. Use toothpaste with fluoride

Fluoride is a mineral commonly used in toothpaste. This substance is important for protecting the tooth's surface. By using toothpaste that contains fluoride, teeth will be protected from the risk of cavities and more resistant to acid attack. In addition, fluoride also helps prevent the growth of oral bacteria.

3. Flossing

Even though you have brushed your teeth thoroughly, sometimes some parts are difficult for the toothbrush to reach. To clean the dirt between your teeth, you can use dental floss (flossing). Floss is also effective in preventing plaque and tartar buildup between the teeth and gums. According to the NHS, regularly flossing your teeth and gums can reduce the risk of gum disease and bad breath.

4. Use mouthwash

Using mouthwash that contains fluoride can help prevent tooth decay. Mouthwash can also help reduce plaque between teeth and gums. To use it, avoid rinsing your mouth right after brushing your teeth to keep the fluoride content of the toothpaste from sticking to your teeth.

5. Reduce smoking

Cigarettes contain tobacco and several substances that can make teeth yellow and lips black. In addition, smoking can also reduce the immune system, making it difficult for the body to heal tissues, including those in the mouth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) includes smoking as one of the habits that can increase the risk of gum disease.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.