Look after your mouth, and it will look after you!
Did you know that according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), oral diseases are among the most common non-communicable diseases that may affect people throughout their lifetime?
The good news is that many oral health conditions are preventable – with proper oral hygiene and visiting a dentist twice a year for a routine check-up. Here’s some advice on how to look after your oral health for the sake of your general health, well-being and quality of life- straight from the professionals.
Abdulaziz Alamri, Assistant Professor – Orthodontics Division, Preventive Dental Sciences dept. – College of Dentistry at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University
Top tip: “In order to best protect your overall health through good oral hygiene, you must brush at least twice daily using the proper technique as a poor brushing technique is almost as bad as not brushing at all. Ask your dentist about the suitable technique for you as it might differ from one case to another. Another tip is to make sure your toothpaste contains fluoride, as natural “fluoride-free” products may not strengthen your teeth.”
Dr Mubarak Al Saeed, Chairman and CEO At UltraMed, Invisalign provider/Consultant
Top tip: “Today we should be adopting technology in oral health tools to help us maintain good oral hygiene. For example, studies have shown that using an electric power toothbrush is generally more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing plaque – which is the number one cause of gum related diseases.”
Dr Osama Basri, Orthodontics for Adults & Children
Top tip: “A healthy diet is key to good oral health. In addition to a healthy diet, adopting simple oral hygiene measures such as brushing teeth twice daily is key to preventing tooth decay. Couple this with some other important habits, such as paying attention to the frequency and duration of brushing; flossing and the use of mouthwash – and you’re well on your way to a healthy mouth, and healthier body.”
With all this great advice, don’t forget to maintain healthy habits to safeguard your oral and overall health!