#preventing dental issues

[luminarai]

Attempting to get the beast used to a dental hygiene routine is… well, it’s going.

(She stayed that way for a solid 8 seconds despite hating being held belly up so I think it’s safe to say that Mim is not beating the ‘tiny speaker playing elevator music instead of a brain’ allegations any time soon.)

[blackmoldmp3]

w multiple health professionals telling me dental issues can cause long term damage to your heart etc it seems so fucked up that in a country with 'universal' healthcare im still stuck paying thousands of dollars getting this shit taken care of. even w some amount of private dental insurance

[tricountyanimal]

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

Keeping your dog's teeth clean is crucial for their overall health. While brushing your dog's teeth might seem straightforward, there are some common mistakes that many pet owners make. These mistakes can lead to ineffective cleaning or even harm your dog's oral health. In this article, we'll explore these common mistakes and how to avoid them to ensure your dog's teeth stay healthy and strong. For more personalized advice, consider visiting Tri-County Animal Hospital.

Mistakes to Avoid When Brushing Your Dog's Teeth

1. Using Human Toothpaste

One of the most common mistakes is using human toothpaste to brush your dog's teeth. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Always use toothpaste specifically designed for dogs, which is safe and often flavored to appeal to your pet.

2. Not Starting Early

Many pet owners wait until their dog is older to start brushing their teeth. It's best to start when your dog is a puppy, as this helps them get used to the process early on. If you have an older dog, it's never too late to start, but it may take more patience and training.

3. Inconsistent Brushing Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to brushing your dog's teeth. Infrequent brushing won't effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup. Aim to brush your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week, if not daily.

4. Brushing Too Hard

Brushing too hard can damage your dog's gums and teeth. Use gentle, circular motions and be mindful of your pressure. Your goal is to clean the teeth without causing any discomfort or harm.

5. Ignoring Dental Checkups

While brushing your dog's teeth at home is essential, it doesn't replace professional dental checkups. Regular visits to the vet, such as those offered by Tri-County Animal Hospital, are crucial for maintaining your dog's oral health. Professional cleanings can address issues that at-home brushing cannot.

6. Using the Wrong Brush

Using a toothbrush designed for humans or a brush that's too large can be uncomfortable for your dog. Use a toothbrush specifically made for dogs, which typically has softer bristles and is designed to fit comfortably in your dog's mouth.

7. Skipping Areas

It's easy to miss certain areas when brushing your dog's teeth, especially the back teeth. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your dog's teeth, including the front, back, and sides, to ensure a thorough cleaning.

8. Not Being Patient

Brushing your dog's teeth can be a challenging task, especially if your dog is not used to it. Patience is essential. Take your time, and if your dog is resistant, try to make the experience as positive as possible by using treats and praise.

9. Using the Same Brush for Too Long

Just like with human toothbrushes, dog toothbrushes need to be replaced regularly. Over time, the bristles can wear out and become less effective. Replace your dog's toothbrush every three months or sooner if it shows signs of wear.

10. Neglecting Other Dental Care Methods

While brushing is important, it's not the only way to care for your dog's teeth. Dental chews, toys, and a diet designed to promote dental health can also help keep your dog's teeth clean. Consult with your vet, like those at Tri-County Animal Hospital, for recommendations on the best products for your dog.

11. Not Using Treats or Rewards

Many dogs are not immediately fond of having their teeth brushed. Using treats or rewards can help make the experience more enjoyable for your dog. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in creating a positive association with tooth brushing.

12. Not Monitoring for Signs of Dental Issues

Even with regular brushing, it's important to monitor your dog's mouth for signs of dental issues, such as bad breath, red or swollen gums, and loose or broken teeth. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a visit with your vet right away.

13. Overlooking Professional Help

If you're struggling with brushing your dog's teeth, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Many vets, including those at Tri-County Animal Hospital, offer dog teeth cleaning services that can ensure your dog's teeth are thoroughly cleaned and healthy.

14. Assuming Dry Food is Enough

While dry food can help reduce tartar buildup, it's not a substitute for brushing. Some pet owners assume that feeding their dog dry food is enough to keep their teeth clean, but brushing is still necessary for optimal dental health.

15. Forgetting to Clean the Tongue

Just like with humans, a dog's tongue can harbor bacteria. While brushing your dog's teeth, take a moment to gently brush their tongue as well. This can help reduce bad breath and improve overall oral hygiene.

Conclusion

Brushing your dog's teeth is an essential part of their overall health care routine. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your dog's teeth remain healthy and clean. Remember to use the right tools, be consistent, and seek professional help when needed. With patience and care, you can make tooth brushing a positive experience for both you and your dog. For additional support and services, visit Tri-County Animal Hospital.

[eva-care-dental-clinic]

Importance of Dental X-Rays: Key Benefits, Common Concerns, and Safety Tips

Discover the essential role of dental X-rays in maintaining oral health. Learn how they detect hidden issues, monitor tooth development, evaluate bone health, and plan effective treatments. Address common concerns about radiation exposure and safety, especially for children and pregnant women, and understand the numerous advantages of early detection and accurate diagnosis.

[shinestardentalcare]

If you are looking to fix your crooked teeth, you may be considering traditional braces or Invisalign. Invisalign is a form of orthodontics and is a newer way to straighten teeth. Utilizing new scanning technology, dentists non-invasively scan your teeth to create a set of aligners to slowly adjust your teeth to the optimal position.

[dissociacrip]

i saw that one disability-related post a while ago about dental care but i can't find it again so i'm gonna mention a few things as a (mild to moderately) mentally & physically disabled person, whose teeth hurt when i eat sweet stuff now + i've had a root canal due to a fall + i'm learning to take care of myself, that may or may not help other folks with their dental routine

note: i am not a dentist & this info is mostly what i've gleaned secondhand from dentists, so yeah, i am not an expert in any capacity

water flossers aren't as effective as regular flossing (doing both is actually what's most effective) but they're better than nothing & helpful in cases where coordination problems or other issues might prevent regular flossing technique (i imagine this also depends on the quality of the water flosser)

if you use one of the plastic pre-made floss picks things, rinse the string off in-between each time you use it to floss one side of a tooth, it's tedious but it mimics moving to a new (clean) part of the thread like you do with regular floss

if you get an automatic toothbrush, get one that does circular rotation rather than just vibrating or whatever, as this mimics the tools they use in a dentist's office + imitates the circular motion you're expected to make with a standard toothbrush (which is also hard with coordination issues), i got one that does this pretty cheap from walmart (it's an oral-b but i forgot the specific type) + it automatically times it for you

if you have white spots on your teeth that are uneven with the shade of the rest of the tooth those are potentially white spot lesions due to demineralization; whitening products can make this worse rather than help it, but some products can help with remineralization such as mi paste topical tooth creme, which contains calcium and phosphate (i have yet to try this myself but it seems to get suggested by a lot of dentists, orthodontists, etc. for white spots on teeth & it's also supposed to help with sensitivity and tooth health in general because the white spots are lesions so it's not purely cosmetic!)

it's advised to not rinse your mouth immediately after brushing as this potentially dilutes & reduces the effects of the flouride (if you use fluoride toothpaste), stuff says to wait at least 15 minutes or so

just giving your teeth a quick scrub (even if it's without toothpaste and just water) is better than not brushing your teeth at all

if you have trouble seeing a dentist for financial reasons, try to see if there are income-based or charity dental services in your area, sometimes dental schools also provide low-cost/free dental care

that's all i can think of for now, i wish i had more advice for people who struggle to be able to brush their teeth at all in general but this is all i got unfortunately :(

additionally - you're not bad, useless, gross, or a failure if you struggle to (or can't) maintain oral hygiene; this stuff is much easier for some people than it is to others & those who take it for granted like to forget that, no one deserves to be mocked or looked down on for being disabled & struggling to/not being able to do """basic""" stuff like this!

[intheholler]

what joke are you really tryin to tell when you make fun of appalachia and the greater south?

even when you "just" mock our accents (you and i both know what you're really implying when you take on the drawl), the punchline of your joke there is poverty.

those who prefer a more overt route over backhanded implication: when you laugh at our education, or lack thereof, the punchline of your joke is still poverty. systemically underfunded schools packed with underprivileged children who aren't getting the same standards of education as the rest of the country is a real knee slapper boy i tell you what

when you mock our dental health and start quipping about toothless hillbillies, you're still laughin at poverty. appalachia is disproportionately uninsured compared to the rest of the nation. fellas most of us can't afford the privilege of regular, preventative dental visits and checkups, let alone the cost of huge procedures when things finally get dire. beyond that, our poverty is generational. from the get go we inherit bad teeth from family who couldn't afford that shit neither.

in the same vein, when you make fatphobic comments about said disproportionately-uninsured region--one with few jobs available to begin with, let alone work that pays enough to afford wholesome, unprocessed foods that don't rot yer teeth for supper--the butt of your joke is,, u guessed it,, ✨ poverty ✨

but to me the real kicker is the cousin fucker jokes. how can you not see that when you snark about inbreeding, when you piss yourself over that infamous billboard and oh, how could anyone possibly need to be told that?!, your punchline is not only poverty and a lack of education enough to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to build safe support networks, but you're also usually guffawing at incestuous rape and vulnerable children on top of it. peak comedy.

really though, how is any of that funny?

what happens to everyone's class consciousness the moment we start talkin about the hollers n the deep south?

why does health insurance, quality education, and food security for all suddenly go from issues worth fighting for to punishments, and ones we deserve to be humiliated for on top of it?

i know im just a dumb ol hillbilly n all, but i reckon i just don't get what we're supposed to be laughin at here

[clinicse]

DCİDENTALCLİNİC - DEVASA+ (2)

When it comes to achieving a radiant smile, dental crowns in Turkey are becoming an increasingly popular choice for patients seeking exceptional dental care at competitive prices. With advanced techniques and skilled professionals, Turkey has emerged as a hub for dental tourism, drawing individuals from around the globe. This blog post will explore the diverse options available for dental crowns, alongside essential treatments like endodontics in Antalya and other parts of Turkey. 

Dental crowns turkey

When it comes to restoring damaged teeth, dental crowns Turkey have become increasingly popular among both locals and tourists. These crowns not only enhance the appearance of your smile but also provide essential support to weakened teeth. By choosing Turkey for your dental needs, you may find high-quality treatments at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries.

One of the primary reasons many opt for dental crowns in Turkey is the availability of advanced technology and experienced dentists. Many clinics in popular cities like Istanbul and Antalya use the latest techniques and materials to ensure patient safety and satisfaction. This combination of affordability and quality has positioned Turkey as a leading destination for dental tourism.

Moreover, the dental crown procedures typically involve a seamless experience: from initial consultations to the final placements. Most clinics offer tailored packages that include not just the crowns but also accommodation and transportation, making the entire process convenient for overseas patients. This makes Turkey an attractive choice for those seeking effective dental solutions.

Endodontics antalya

Endodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of dental pulp and the surrounding tissues. In Antalya, numerous dental clinics offer advanced endodontic procedures to address various dental issues, ensuring that patients achieve optimal oral health.

Choosing an endodontist  Antalya provides you with access to innovative techniques and technologies. These professionals are well-trained in procedures such as root canal therapy, which can help save a tooth that is severely infected or damaged. Patients can expect a comfortable experience with modern anesthesia methods and post-treatment care.

Many dental practices in Antalya also emphasize the importance of preventative care in endodontics. Regular check-ups and timely interventions can prevent more serious issues down the line, promoting long-lasting dental health. Whether you require a routine examination or a complex procedure, Antalya offers a wealth of options to meet your endodontic needs.

Endodontics turkey

Endodontics Turkey is a rapidly growing field, where advanced techniques and technologies are used to treat dental conditions affecting the tooth pulp. Patients seeking quality care often turn to Turkey because of its affordable prices and high standards of dental services.

In Turkey, endodontic treatments are performed by skilled professionals who utilize state-of-the-art equipment. This includes digital imaging and modern sterilization techniques, ensuring safety and efficacy during procedures such as root canals.

Choosing endodontics in Turkey not only provides access to expert dental care but also offers an opportunity to explore the beautiful country while getting treatment. Many dental clinics in Turkey cater to international patients, providing personalized treatment pl

Teeth whitining antalya

When it comes to achieving a radiant smile, teeth whitening Antalya has become increasingly popular. Many people seek this cosmetic treatment to enhance their overall appearance and boost their confidence. The beautiful resort city of Antalya offers a variety of dental clinics that specialize in effective teeth whitening procedures.

Apart from the professional services available, patients can expect to find a blend of modern techniques and advanced technology devoted to teeth whitening. Options include in-office treatments that provide quick results and at-home kits that allow for gradual whitening. Both methods can be customized to fit individual needs and preferences.

In addition to aesthetic benefits, teeth whitening can also contribute to better oral hygiene. A brighter smile often encourages patients to maintain their dental care routine, as they become more conscious of their overall appearance. With the picturesque backdrop of Antalya, many find this dental journey to be a rewarding experience.

[hellyeahsickaf]

Low Spoons and Hygiene

Sometimes being disabled means struggling with hygiene and that can be embarrassing, even though it's not your fault or a reflection of you as a person. Nobody wants to be stinky or feel dirty, especially when a lot of illnesses and disabilities can entail symptoms like excessive sweating that can make the issue of struggling with hygiene a million times worse.

But smelling bad is the least of your worries, as poor hygiene can lead to things like skin infections. Bacteria and fungi like hanging around in stagnant, often damp areas that collect sweat. And most people have folds- even if just a little, which can be the ideal habitat for dangerous microorganisms. Not changing your underwear/bra or washing your body for an extended period can lead to things like jock itch, intertrigo, yeast infections, athlete's foot, UTIs (anyone can get one and they can spread to the kidneys within days or even hours- and you need those little guys!), all sorts of complications. The existence of foul or sometimes even a slightly "sweet" odor on your body or even in your urine tends to indicate the existence of bacteria (it's why armpits stink) or fungi like candida. Dental hygiene is equally important- an infected tooth or excessive cavities can be bad news. If you experience these things or struggle to regularly care for your body, it's not something to be ashamed of. All of those complications can and do happen to people who do everything right.

Note that issues like UTIs or dental infections don't tend to just go away on their own and need to be treated as urgently as possible.

However, I'll share some things that may prevent or remedy issues like infections and odor that's gotten out of hand and hopefully some may find this list helpful in some way. Any products I've listed may be found at other retailers or at different prices, they're just examples. Feel free to add on to it.

The bare minimum is always better than nothing. Brushing with just a dry toothbrush, using disposable body wipes or a washcloth/sponge instead of a shower, dry shampoo (the sprays are actually pretty bad for you, I'd stay away from those if possible), leave in conditioner, also whole body deodorant is a thing. If the most you can do is change your clothes- hell even just change your bra and/or underwear, it can be the one thing between you and an awful infection.

If infections are a concern, like if say you suffer from chronic UTIs or yeast infections it's advisable to wear breathable cotton underwear.

If you can't get up to brush your teeth or struggle to do so, it may be helpful to purchase disposable toothbrushes. These ones have floss picks attached.

Flossing is just as, if not more important than brushing. If you only have the energy to floss on some days, do that. If you need to keep floss picks and a place to dispose of them near your bed, then that's fine (just don't let it pile on without disposing of it and create a biohazard). it can help remove food particles that help create a breeding ground for bacteria. Also gently moving in and out between your teeth with slight movement if needed is ideal, don't roughly saw across your gums, ouch.

If you struggle with wiping say due to mobility issues, there are products for this. Wiping back to front as an alternative risks yeast infections and UTIs. It's a very common cause of these diseases due to bacteria like e-coli. We do not want that.

Crashing and can't wash your sheets? Out of shirts with no energy to do the laundry today? Antimicrobial fabric spray may help with the odor and bacteria that accumulates on fabric as a temporary fix until you can properly wash it. Try not to wear clothing or interact with fabrics like blankets and couches that are still wet from the spray, as that can irritate the skin.

Try to avoid "feminine wash" products if possible, you don't need the fancy Summer's Eve premium strawberry hibiscus blush scented whatever, it can fuck up your PH and kill good bacteria despite claims to do otherwise. Same with PH wipes. It's recommended not to use soap on your genitalia, especially scented and especially if you have a vagina. If you must use some sort of soap, dermatologists typically recommend the most basic, unscented wash. And do not put it in your body by any means.

Rinse free shower sponges have been a life saver for me, especially the ones that also work as shampoo (it's probably not color safe tho). You just add water, lather, and make sure you dry off well. If it helps you determine how much to buy, I normally find myself using maybe 3-5 sponges each time.

OTC jock itch cream can work for some fungal infections on the body not limited to jock itch but if you see no difference or worsening within a few days of using it, consult a dermatologist as you may need something different or stronger.

Unscented pads and tampons are best and should be changed every 4 hours or so ideally. Never leave a tampon in for over 8 hours. Despite common fears, 9 hours won't give you toxic shock syndrome, that normally takes a few days and is quite rare with tampons but that doesn't mean that 13 hours or something is good or safe. I've just heard some say that sex ed scared them away from tampons after being told stories of TSS. I hear that menstrual cups are also a great alternative that many don't consider.

Monistat and similar yeast infection products often come with different options like 3 day treatment, 5 day treatment, 7 day. I know you want to feel better ASAP, but just take into account that 3 day will be highly concentrated and can cause more burning than the 7 day. Longer treatment may also be more effective in some cases. Penile yeast infections exist as well. Just be aware that some products are more potent than others regardless of birth sex. Antifungals in general may cause itching and/or burning, which some are more sensitive to than others or may even find triggering in cases where it must be applied to the genitalia.

Hydrocortisone cream is your best friend if you're experiencing itchiness due to things like skin infections, contact dermatitis, yeast infections, etc. But please don't use it to mask the symptoms of an infection without treating it.

How frequently you need to wash your hair varies by hair type. This can vary between every 2 days for some and every 1-2 weeks for coily and textured hair. Make sure you look into what is ideal for your hair type. And again on days where you cannot wash, disposable sponges and dry shampoo can be a life saver.

If something is discolored, odorous, itchy, inflamed, bumpy, producing moisture, warm to the touch, oozy, weepy, splotchy, sticky, burning/painful, it may likely be an infection or in some cases an allergic reaction. Familiarize yourself with what different skin infections and diseases may look like on your skin tone. Ringworm and other fungal infections for instance may appear red or pink on fair or lighter brown skin, but on darker skin may appear gray or darker brown.

Fungal infections are also super fucking contagious. To other parts of your body, other people, even to pets. Wash your hands well with antibacterial soap, especially before and after applying any topical treatment or touching the area in any way. After a shower, PAT the infected area dry and do not reuse that towel or use on other parts of the body.

Invest in a shower chair if you feel it may help you, it's one of the best things I've ever bought. I didn't want to get one at first because it felt like I was "giving in" to my disability more and more but that's the internalized ableism talking. Get the shower chair.

A bar to help you stand from the toilet/tub/shower chair may also be helpful.

Again, feel free to add to the list if you want!

[nenelonomh]

oral hygiene practices

maintaining healthy teeth and gums is crucial for many reasons:

prevents tooth decay and gum disease. regular brushing and flossing remove plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease if not properly managed.

maintains fresh breath. poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath (halitosis). brushing your teeth, and tongue, and using mouthwash can help keep your breath fresh.

reduces the risk of systemic diseases. there is a strong link between oral health and overall health. poor oral hygiene can contribute to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

saves money. preventive care is often less expensive than treating dental problems. regular check-ups and cleanings can help catch issues early before they become more serious and costly.

so, let's look at some key practices to help maintain your smile.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ brush your teeth twice a day. use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. brush for at least two minutes, making sure to clean all surfaces of your teeth.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ floss daily. flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gumline where your toothbrush can’t reach.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ use mouthwash. an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque, prevent cavities, and freshen your breath.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ maintain a healthy diet. limit sugary foods and drinks, as they can contribute to tooth decay. eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can support overall oral health.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ stay hydrated. drinking plenty of water, especially fluoridated tap water, helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ avoid tobacco products. smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ replace your toothbrush regularly. change it over every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

ੈ✩‧₊˚ visit your dentist regularly. regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and catching any issues early.

i know that i am only reinforcing what your dentist is already telling you - but my purpose is to provide easy information and further reading resources that may teach you something new. by incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can keep your teeth and gums healthy.

unfortunately, i know many people who ignore simple health facts (for a multitude of reasons). but this is not the way! looking after your health and your body is so important!

for further reading:

Oral Hygiene: Best Practices & Instructions for Good Routine | Cleveland Clinic

WOHD23-factsheet-oralhygiene-EN.pdf | FDI World Dental Foundation

Oral Hygiene | National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

the original oral hygiene post (by me)

❤️ nene

[thehappyvet]

Veterinary medicine is reliant on universal human healthcare.

If humans are paying out of their own pocket for their healthcare, there's less funds available for their pets.

It's a trend we see often during recessions or cost of living pressures, like people giving their pets up for adoption or trying to stretch out elective procedures or checkups as long as possible while things are tight. It's just one of the things we do to try and ease the financial pressures.

With shifts, particularly in Australia, of reduced bulk billing for GP visits and Medicare struggling to cover most procedures this trend is becoming apparent.

We don't have Medicare for pets. Everything is out of pocket unless you have insurance.

If there's less money due to cost of living pressures and rising healthcare costs sadly pets are one of the things we stop spending money on. And if we do, we might be forced to choose high interest loans that can lead to further pressures.

Universal healthcare is a human right. We deserve to have our health issues covered by the taxes we pay.

But it's also essential for animal health and welfare. If society doesn't have to spend its money on their own health, there's funds available to ensure pets get vital veterinary care including check-ups, dental care and diagnostic procedures. We can act early with less invasive treatment and better chances of success.

Veterinarians struggle to practice preventative medicine and are forced into reactive medicine when human healthcare isn't universal.

[brosser-les-dents]

Do you have any suggestions on how to motivate myself to brushing my teeth after I get home late from work? I’m so exhausted after every evening shift I have to close, because I always brush my teeth in the morning but not when I come back.

That's definitely a hard one, because brushing your teeth is already a pain.

Do you shower before bed? Might help to have tooth brush and paste in your shower so you can get both done at the same time. Or match tooth brushing with something else you do before bed. Like are you washing your hands? Washing your face? Don't let yourself leave without brushing as well.

Another thing to remember could be just that brushing and flossing are super important and will only take about 5 minutes. I know it's a bunch of steps, but overall time actually don't need that much.

Something to remind yourself when you're exhausted and considering skipping brushing is that making sure to brush and floss before bed could make a huge difference in quality of life in your future. My mom only has 3 teeth left as all the rest have rotted out of her head. She has dentures but they don't fit right and cause her so much pain. They also cost $6k. My dad is now in the same process. There are only 2 spots left on his molars where they contact so he can chew. So he's really struggling.

Even just fixing cavities is painful and so expensive. The best treatment for any dental issues is prevention. So do your best to remind yourself how important it is to get it done before bed, even if you're exhausted. I'm here rooting for you and there's like another 400 other people on this journey with you!

If anyone else has any tips or tricks, pls leave them in the comments!

And for everyone else to remember: BRUSH AND FLOSS

[pastel-charm-14]

oral health

it's something we often overlook, but taking care of our teeth and gums is super important for our overall well-being. here are some simple tips to keep your smile bright and healthy:

brush twice a day: make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed. use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for at least two minutes each time to remove plaque and bacteria.

floss daily: don't forget to floss! flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gumline, where your toothbrush can't reach.

rinse with mouthwash: using an antibacterial mouthwash can help kill germs and freshen your breath. swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing.

eat a balanced diet: what you eat can impact your oral health. try to limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease. instead, opt for healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

drink plenty of water: staying hydrated is important for your oral health too. water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, and it also helps stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and protects your teeth.

visit your dentist regularly: don't skip your dental check-ups! seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and exams can help catch any issues early and prevent more serious problems down the road.

avoid tobacco: smoking and using other tobacco products can wreak havoc on your oral health, increasing your risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. if you smoke, consider quitting for the sake of your smile and your overall health.

remember, taking care of your teeth and gums is an investment in your long-term health and happiness. so make oral health a priority and keep smiling bright!