More than 700 types of bacterial species live in our mouths. Some have their natural habitat there, which is beneficial for us, while others on colonizing are harmful to the peaceful oral environment. They are responsible for the formation of plaque and tartar in our mouth. Killing and getting rid of these harmful bacteria is the best way to fight cavities and bad breath.
Following are some measures that you can take to maintain a healthy oral environment free from bacteria.
1) Brushing:
The most important oral hygiene practice is brushing. Brushing your teeth first thing in the morning and again before going to bed kills harmful bacteria and stops their multiplication. This habit also stimulates the production of saliva that ultimately washes out bacteria. Do not forget to scrap your tongue also. It also has accumulated bacteria that need to be kept in check to stay free from diseases. Changing your toothbrush every three-four months is also necessary, as it can carry harmful bacteria which can ultimately enter your mouth.
2) Flossing:
Bacteria responsible for forming plaque often hide between the teeth and under the gums. These bacterias forms plaque that cannot be removed through brushing. Gradually this causes cavities and infections. Flossing helps in cleaning this space between the teeth and around the gumline. Waterpik can be used to effectively flush out the toxins and bacteria from below the gumline.
3) Consume a Sugar-Free Diet:
Your diet has a direct relation to the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth. Therefore, you should avoid eating food that is high in sugar. Bacteria causing cavities and gums problem thrives on sugar-rich food accumulated in your mouth. Sugar breaks down into acids by bacteria, and these acids create cavities. You should avoid taking soda, fruit juice, caramels, candies, ice-creams. If you still have them some time, make sure you do a mouthwash or drink plenty of water to rinse out any leftovers.
You can also replace sugar with xylitol. Bacteria thrive on sugars but cannot digest xylitol. Therefore, in the absence of sugar, they starve to death. You can use toothpaste that contains xylitol. However, remember that xylitol is safe for humans but toxic to cats and dogs. Therefore, keep it at a safe reach from your pets.
4) Mouthwashes:
Mouthwash helps in keeping the number of bacteria under control. Natural mouthwashes contain ingredients like cinnamon, tea tree oil, peppermint, and spearmint and are available over-the-counter. Mouthwash with these ingredients helps rinse off the food debris from the mouth and keep it bacteria-free. You can also use sugar-free chewing gum to stimulate saliva production. Good saliva also helps in flushing away food debris. You can use varieties of chewing gum that contain natural sweetener xylitol, as it helps stop the growth of oral bacteria.
5) Professional Cleaning and Polishing:
The accumulated plaque and tartar that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing can be easily flushed away by professional scaling and polishing. It stops the ingrowth of bacteria into the gum line, thereby stopping cavitation, and also saves the bone strength of teeth.
Natural ways are the preventive ways of keeping your oral health in check from bacteria and diseases. However, regular dental check-ups are a must to free from the prevalent oral problems. You should visit your dentist every six months and get an idea of your oral health. These habits will keep you away from oral diseases for a long time, and you can have strong and healthy teeth for long life.