Written by Menswear Style in Beauty on the 25th February 2021

When it comes to oral hygiene, the rate at which gum disease, infections, and tooth loss happen is higher in men than women due to several factors; statistics show that men tend to avoid visiting the dentist more so than women, who go to the dentists for teeth cleaning and check-ups more frequently. In addition, statistics also show that women brush their teeth more often than men, as they usually brush their teeth twice a day and sometimes after every meal. Fortunately, you can easily adopt good habits that help you protect your teeth and maintain good oral hygiene. Read on to learn more.

Brush Your Teeth Before Going to Bed 

Bacteria builds up in our oral cavity while we sleep, so brushing your teeth before going to bed can protect your teeth from plaque buildup, decay, and gum disease. Brushing before going to bed will also make you wake up with fresher breath. Next time you feel too lazy to brush your teeth before sleeping, think of the long-term effects this can have, where plaque will thicken on your teeth and bacteria will multiply in your mouth, which can't be removed without cleaning performed by a dentist.

Flossing 

Many of us underestimate flossing although it is as important as brushing our teeth. Toothbrushes can’t reach between teeth, and hence the importance of flossing as it can get rid of food particles stuck between your teeth. Flossing at least twice a day can maximise your oral health and protect you against gum disease. 

Regular Dental Exams 

As mentioned above, men tend to avoid going to the dentist more often than women, which increases their risk of having gum disease and cavities. Having regular check-ups at the dentist every 6 months is a preventative measure you should take for better oral health. Regular exams can identify any problems at an early stage, which makes them easier to fix and can save you a lot of money spent on more serious dental issues. If you live around Ocala, dentists at VIPcare Dental clinic would be happy to have your teeth examined.

Brush Your Teeth 3 Times a Day 

While it is recommended to brush your teeth twice a day, brushing your teeth after lunch is very important, too. After eating a meal that contains sugar, bacteria found in plaque produces acids, which attack the enamel. These acids can break down the tooth enamel, which causes cavities. If the plaque isn’t removed, it could turn into tartar, which leads to inflammation. Further, if you work for long hours, owning dental kits is a good idea. They allow you to clean your teeth and gums right after lunch anywhere you are. If you don’t have the time to buy one in store, then buying kits online is a good option for you. Also, if you have an important meeting after working long hours, dental kits are your saviour. They’ll give you fresh breath and will help you maintain your daily routine of brushing 3 times a day. 

Brush Your Teeth for at Least 2 Minutes 

The mouth is the gateway to our overall health. Be sure to remember that if you think 2 minutes is a long time to spend on brushing teeth. Brushing your teeth for at least 2 minutes will help you cover almost all the areas in your mouth. Two minutes is enough time to remove plaque from your teeth, and studies show that people who spend more than a minute brushing their teeth are more likely to remove up to 26 percent more plaque than people who spend less time brushing.

Brush Correctly 

If you do not brush your teeth the right way, then it doesn’t really matter how much time you spend on brushing, as you are not doing it right. You need to place the toothbrush diagonally and then gently move it back and forth in short strokes. Brush all the surfaces of your teeth and be sure to get the molars at the back. As for the inside surfaces of your front teeth, the brush should be tilted vertically before you make downstrokes. 

Use Mouthwash 

Remember that mouthwash is not a replacement for brushing or flossing. However, using it regularly will offer you protection against halitosis, cavities, and gum disease. Many types of mouthwashes prevent the growth of plaque on gums, so be sure to check the label and see if the product you’ve opted for is suitable for your teeth sensitivity. If you have sensitive gums, use mouthwash sparingly. Oral health is of utmost importance, and neglecting it might lead to complications that can affect the heart, lead to diabetes complications, as well as respiratory issues. Your smile says a lot about you, and no one likes a stained smile. If you stick to these habits and include them in your daily routine, you will maintain good oral health. Oral health impacts our self-esteem as well, so in order to have a better quality of life, physically and emotionally, you need to take care of your oral health.

We recommend flossing, regular dental exams, brush correctly, and use mouthwash in this blog post on Effective Dental Habits Every Guy Should Practice.