"Every time I bite something, I feel my teeth ache, which makes Aunt Li's quality of life greatly reduced. This discomfort even affected her enjoyment of sweet pastries with her grandson. This is not only a problem for Aunt Li, but a common challenge faced by many middle-aged and elderly people. In fact, oral problems are not an inevitable part of life, but can be prevented and improved with simple daily care. "
Oral health: the cornerstone of quality of life
Oral health is an important part of overall health. Dental and oral problems, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, not only affect chewing and speech, but can also trigger more serious health problems. For example, studies have shown that oral diseases are associated with chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. This means that maintaining oral health isn't just about aesthetics or avoiding discomfort, it's a critical step in maintaining overall health.
Dental problems, especially in middle-aged and older people, are often overlooked. As we age, the natural wear and tear of our teeth, coupled with improper daily care, can lead to problems such as gum recession and periodontal disease. Studies have shown that more than half of middle-aged and elderly people have some form of periodontal disease, which not only affects chewing function, but can also lead to tooth loss.
Problems such as canker sores and dry mouth should not be ignored. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as medication side effects, poor diet Xi habits, and even psychological stress. Canker sores are not only painful, they can also affect appetite and nutrient intake, further affecting physical health.
Therefore, it is crucial to understand and take proper oral health care measures. This includes not only proper daily care, such as brushing and flossing, but also regular professional dental check-ups.
"Mastering this trick, dental health is no longer difficult"
Proper brushing techniques are the cornerstone of maintaining a healthy mouth. Many people think that brushing is simply brushing back and forth in the mouth, but in fact, the right way to brush your teeth is much more than that.
Choosing the right toothbrush is crucial. Soft or medium-hard bristles effectively remove plaque without damaging the gums. The toothbrush should be placed gently at a 45-degree angle at the junction of the teeth and gums. This angle not only helps to clean the surface of the teeth, but also gently stimulates the gums and promotes blood circulation.
When brushing your teeth, use gentle up-and-down vibrations instead of rapid lateral rubbing. Not only does this method remove plaque more effectively, but it also reduces damage to your teeth. Studies have shown that proper brushing can significantly reduce the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Brush each area for at least 30 seconds to ensure that all teeth are thoroughly cleaned. This means that the entire brushing process should last 2 to 3 minutes. Also, don't forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth, which are also where bacteria grow.
Choosing a toothpaste that contains fluoride is crucial. Fluoride can prevent tooth decay by enhancing the teeth' resistance to acids. After brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth with water and spit it out, do not rinse your mouth immediately to avoid weakening the effect of fluoride.
"Demystifying the Dental Floss: Oral Guard's Support Team"
Floss, the invisible hero of oral care, is often overlooked, but it actually plays an integral role in maintaining dental health. Imagine that food particles and bacteria left between your teeth, if not cleaned up in time, can easily form tartar, which can even lead to periodontal disease over time. And dental floss is the cleaning expert in these hard-to-reach areas.
The right way to floss is simple but effective. Gently slide the dental floss between the two teeth, gently close to the surface of the tooth, and gently stroke up and down to remove food debris and tartar trapped between the teeth. The point is to cover every corner of the tooth and make sure that nothing is left behind.
In addition to dental floss, there are other cleaning aids that deserve attention. For example, gap brushes are effective at cleaning food debris between teeth and under the gum line. Especially for those with large gaps between teeth, gap brushes are an ideal choice. Water flossers, on the other hand, use a high-pressure stream of water to clean between the teeth, and are a gentle and effective option for people with sensitive teeth or gums that bleed easily.
According to statistics, the incidence of periodontal disease is about 40% lower in people who floss regularly than in people who do not floss. This data speaks volumes about the importance of dental floss in oral health. Together with the help of other cleaning aids, the risk of periodontal disease and gingivitis can be further reduced, and dental health can be guaranteed.
Floss and other cleaning aids are like an auxiliary team of oral guards, they work together to protect teeth from disease, making oral health more comprehensive and long-lasting.
"Oral Guardian at the Table: Choose the Right Food to Stay Away from Dental Problems"
Dietary Xi has a profound impact on oral health, and the right choices can be a powerful shield for your teeth. A balanced intake of calcium- and phosphorus-rich foods, such as milk, cheese and green leafy vegetables, can help strengthen the tooth structure and prevent demineralization. A study in Tokyo, Japan, showed that people who regularly consume dairy products have stronger teeth than those who do not consume dairy products regularly.
Sugar intake is a key factor. Sugary foods, especially candies and soft drinks that adhere to your teeth, can be broken down by bacteria in your mouth, producing acids that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. According to the American Dental Association, reducing sugar intake significantly reduces the risk of tooth decay.
Fruits and vegetables play an important role in oral health. Chewing fiber-rich foods such as apples and carrots not only cleans the surface of your teeth, but also promotes saliva production and neutralizes the acidic environment in your mouth. And fruits rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and strawberries, help with gum health and prevent bleeding gums.
It's also crucial to avoid acidic foods and beverages, such as lemon juice and carbonated drinks. They can erode tooth enamel, increase tooth sensitivity and wear and tear. One study found that people who regularly consumed sugary carbonated beverages were twice as likely to have tooth enamel erosion as non-drinkers.