Dental Care Tips for Common Issues
Maintaining your dental health isn’t difficult with regular brushing and flossing. But unfortunately, most of us aren’t as diligent on those habits as we should be. In addition, it’s been reported that around half of Americans put off dental visits during the pandemic and are just catching up now.
In the meantime, if you’re having any of these issues, Washington Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has a look at some at-home remedies you may want to try before getting into the dentist’s chair.
- Bleeding Gums
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, that means that you’re not brushing or flossing long enough or often enough. At a minimum, brush twice a day for two minutes at a time, floss once a day, and use an antibacterial rinse after you’re finished.
- Receding Gums
If you look like you’re literally getting long in the tooth, the likely cause is brushing too hard. Get a soft-bristled toothbrush and imagine that you need to massage your gums and not scrub them.
- Cavities
Fluoride will help protect your teeth from decay. You can use toothpaste with fluoride or a special rinse that’s readily available at your drugstore. In addition, ask your dentist if he feels a more concentrated prescription toothpaste or rinse is necessary.
- Dry Mouth
In addition to dehydration, many prescription medications have dry mouth as a side effect. Sipping on water regularly throughout the day and chewing sugar-free gum helps promote the flow of saliva.
- Bad Breath
If you’re on top of brushing your teeth and flossing but still noticing bad breath, the solution lies in making sure to brush your tongue. Alternatively, tongue scrapers are available and are inexpensive. If your tongue is sparking clean and you’re still noticing bad breath, check with your dentist because there may be a tooth-decay issue.
