Maintaining good oral care is essential to overall health and well-being. Poor dental care can lead to a variety of issues, including cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Fortunately, there are easy steps you can take to stay on top of your dental care and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organisation, mentioned in the foreword of the WHO Global Oral Health Status Report (2022) that oral diseases are prevalent noncommunicable diseases affecting around 3.5 billion people globally. He highlighted that 3 out of 4 people affected by oral diseases reside in middle-income countries. The report also indicates that the burden of oral diseases is progressively rising, especially in low- and middle-income nations.

The WHO Global Oral Health Status Report (2022) estimated that oral diseases affect close to 3.5 billion people worldwide, with 3 out of 4 people affected living in middle-income countries. Globally, an estimated 2 billion people suffer from caries of permanent teeth and 514 million children suffer from caries of primary teeth.

We are of the opinion that the steps outlined below are uncomplicated and straightforward methods to initiate better control over your overall oral health and establish healthy habits.

Here are five easy steps to help you maintain good dental oral care:

1. Brush twice a day: Brushing your teeth twice a day is the cornerstone of good dental hygiene. Make sure you brush for at least two minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Brush in circular motions and pay extra attention to the back teeth, which are often overlooked.
2. Floss daily: Flossing is just as important as brushing, yet many people neglect this step. Flossing removes plaque and food particles that your toothbrush can’t reach. Take a length of floss and gently slide it between your teeth, being careful not to snap it down onto your gums.
3. Use mouthwash: Mouthwash can help freshen your breath and kill bacteria in your mouth. Look for a mouthwash that contains fluoride, which can help strengthen your teeth. Rinse your mouth with mouthwash for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing.
4. Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can be harmful to your teeth. They can cause cavities and erode your tooth enamel. Limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, and try to stick to water and milk instead.
5. Visit the dentist regularly: Even if you have excellent dental hygiene habits, it’s important to visit the dentist regularly. Your dentist can catch issues early before they become bigger problems. Aim to visit the dentist twice a year for cleanings and check-ups.

By following these five easy steps, you can stay on top of your dental care and maintain good oral health. Remember, good dental hygiene habits can not only help prevent cavities and gum disease, but they can also improve your overall health and well-being.