Oral hygiene is undoubtedly one the most talked-about topics in dentistry. Why? Because, of course, the teeth would easily succumb to bacterial infiltrations and tartar buildup if we don’t brush and floss regularly. But to attain the best oral health, brushing and flushing are not enough to keep the bacteria from pillaging our teeth. Here are some useful tips to get you started on a well-maintained oral health:

FOR ADULTS:

1. Refrain from eating food with high sucrose content (note that sweetness is not the test of sucrose concentration). Tooth decay and periodontal diseases are often rooted from eating too many sweets.

- White flour
- Carbonated drinks
- French fries and starchy foods
- Doughnuts
- Energy bars
- High sugar cereals
- Cookies & candies
- Ice cream & desserts
- Fruits & fruit juices
- Honey
- White sugar

Besides from compromising the health of the teeth, foods that have high sucrose content have also been known to depress them immune system, leading to all sorts of complications in the body. Other proven and profound hazards of sugar in the body are:

- Obesity
- Hyperactivity, depression and twitches in both children and adults.
- Overproduction of harmful cholesterols
- Kidney damage
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Heart diseases
- Allergies
- Fatty liver and enlarged liver
- Strokes
- Colon problems
- Free radical formation in the bloodstream
- Speeds up the aging process
- Toxemia
- Eczema
- Hypertension
- Migraines and frequent headaches, including the inability to think rationally

2. Practice eating yellow cheese after eating. It helps neutralize the acids formed inside the mouth.

3. Refrain from eating soft and sticky foods.

4. Hard to chew foods are good for the mouth because eating them increases saliva production, that neutralizes acid-buildup inside the mouth.

5. Eat watery fruits and green vegetables, such as watermelons, cucumber and lettuce.

6. Lightly brush your gums when brushing your teeth.

7. Get regular dental checkups and dental cleanings.

8. It is also recommended that you use mouth wash to prevent plaque buildup.

9. Change your toothbrush after three months.

FOR PARENTS AND THEIR KIDS:

1. Do NOT let kids below five years of age drink milk before sleeping. Baby teeth are prone to acidity from milk and your kids’ permanent teeth may carry on the porosity exhibited by the baby teeth (which again, is caused by drinking milk).

2. Do NOT let children under the age of five eat honey for precautionary purposes. Children have underdeveloped immune systems and theirs health may be compromised when they honey that they digest has not been completely ridden of pesticides.

3. Do NOT indulge your children in eating sweets and junk foods. As an alternative, you can feed them healthy foods that have natural sweeteners. Feeding them fruits and vegetables at an early age will also decrease their craving for sweets as they grow up.

4. Brush your kids’ teeth (if they cannot do it by themselves) before and after meals. This will not harm the teeth of your children, and instead, will make them more aware that brushing their teeth should be done, even without your supervision.

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