(NC) April is Oral Health Month, so it’s a good time to remember that your oral health is part of your entire well-being. Protect your smile, along with the rest of you, by making sure you have these three things:
Proper nutrition. You've probably heard a lot about what you’re not supposed to have if you want a healthy smile—sweets, coffee, red wine, to name a few. But it’s just as important to focus on things you should be eating for good oral health, because some of them are surprising.
For example, did you know that crunchy fruits like apples and pears are great for your teeth? Raw veggies like celery are excellent, too, for the same reasons. The texture helps clean tooth surfaces, while all the chewing required to enjoy them stimulates extra saliva production. Your saliva is a natural mouthwash, and even contains important minerals for healthy teeth, like fluoride.
Expert advice. Canadians trust their healthcare professionals, and with good reason. Regular cleaning by your dentist or hygienist will do your teeth and gums good. It also will help them monitor your mouth and spot early warning signs of cavities or infections, or even more serious issues such as oral and even throat cancer. Be sure to let them know about any new sensitivity or pain you might be feeling, because the earlier an issue is caught, the easier it is to fix.
Most experts recommend scheduling regular dentist visits every six months. Make routine-building easier for yourself by booking your next checkup on your way out of the dentist’s office, and ask for email or text reminders closer to the date.
Targeted care. Take a preventative approach to your daily oral care by using tools that fight the root cause of common dental issues: bacteria. Many factors affect oral health, not just cavities, so choose products clinically proven to help achieve healthier gums, like those in the Colgate Total Active Prevention System.
When used together twice daily, the toothpaste, mouthwash and toothbrush provide 12-hour antibacterial protection against germs that cause plaque and gingivitis. It means that brushing your teeth is more than ticking a box, and you can rest easy knowing you’ve got protection that lasts.
Learn more tips to care for your oral health at colgate.ca.
