Life Hacks: Oral Health Edition
With jam-packed schedules and a constant to-do list, taking care of your teeth might seem like just one more thing to do. However, improving your oral health is simpler than you think.
By incorporating one, two, or all of these oral health life hacks into your daily routine, you can easily step up your dental health game!
Simple life hacks for better oral health
These oral health life hacks are simple and will easily level up your dental hygiene.
Brush before coffee
The thought of brushing your teeth before enjoying your morning coffee may not seem logical. However, it will help keep your teeth healthier.
Brushing your teeth right after having a cup of coffee can actually damage your teeth due to the acidity of the coffee. The American Dental Association (ADA) advises that you wait 60 minutes after eating or drinking anything acidic to before brushing to allow time for saliva to wash away acids and re-harden enamel.
The ADA also recommends that after acidic meals or beverages, you rinse your mouth with water, drink milk, or enjoy a snack of cheese right afterward. Dairy and other calcium-rich foods can help neutralize acids.
Set a timer for brushing
It’s easy to underestimate the amount of time spent brushing your teeth. The ADA recommends brushing your teeth twice a day for two full minutes. A helpful life hacktoensure you meet this guideline is to set a timer on your phone or play your favorite song until the two-minute mark.
Eat foods that keep your teeth clean
Did you know that chewing certain foods can help clean the surfaces of your teeth? According to the University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry, “Crunchy, firm foods that contain lots of water are great natural teeth cleaners because they stimulate the flow of saliva, which helps to scrub away food particles and bacteria.”
The life hack is incorporating vegetables like carrots, lettuce, or celery into your everyday diet for an effective and natural way to keep your teeth clean.
Get a tongue scraper
If you’re looking to level up your dental routine, tongue scraping is a life hack for getting added benefits that normal brushing and flossing can’t provide.
Tongue scrapers help rid harmful bacteria that linger on the tongue and remove any food debris. A clean tongue also promotes fresher breath and a healthier mouth.
Practice oral health life hacks every day for a brighter smile
Maintaining excellent oral health doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With these life hacks at your disposal, achieving a brighter, healthier smile is within reach. Remember, consistency is key—implement these simple yet effective practices into your daily routine and watch as they transform your oral health.
