A healthy lifestyle contributes to good oral health
LIFESTYLE
Oral health is one factor that contributes to a healthy lifestyle.
Here are some tips to help you look after your oral health:
Schedule regular visits to your dentist.
Brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day.
Eat a well-balanced diet.
Check your mouth regularly to become familiar with what is normal for you. This will help you recognize when something in your mouth looks or feels different or abnormal.
Avoid activities that might harm your mouth or teeth such as smoking, oral piercings and recreational drugs.
Try to reduce the impact stress has on your oral and overall health.
Alert your dentist to any herbal remedies, over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking.
Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth when you are playing sports. Read more about mouthguards.
What should my mouth look like on the inside?
Between dental visits check your mouth for warning signs of gum disease and oral cancer.
Warning signs of gum disease may include:
puffy, red, sore, shiny or sensitive gums
bleeding when you brush or floss
bad breath that won’t go away
Warning signs of oral cancer may include:
numbness and tingling
open sores that don’t go away within a week to 10 days
unexplained bleeding
lumps or thickening on the bottom or sides of your tongue, cheeks, or roof of your mouth.
If you notice any of these signs, or have any concerns, call your dentist immediately on 02 9726 6262.
