World Oral Health Day takes place on March 20 every year to raise awareness about the importance of good oral hygiene. Here are ten tips from dentists around the world for a healthy smile:.

1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the fronts, backs, and chewing surfaces.

Don’t forget to brush your tongue as well to remove bacteria that can cause bad breath.

2. Floss Daily

Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. It also helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

Use a gentle, sawing motion to guide the floss between your teeth, and be sure to wrap it around the base of each tooth and under the gumline.

3. Use Mouthwash

Mouthwash can help freshen your breath and kill bacteria that cause tooth decay and gum disease. Look for an antimicrobial mouthwash that contains fluoride to protect your teeth from cavities.

Swish the mouthwash around in your mouth for 30 seconds after brushing and flossing.

4. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods

Sugar and acid can damage your teeth and lead to cavities and erosion. Limit your intake of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and citrus fruits.

If you do indulge, rinse your mouth with water afterward and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging your enamel.

5. Drink Plenty of Water

Water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria and keeps your mouth hydrated. It also helps stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acids and protects your teeth from decay.

Drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and choose water over sugary or acidic beverages.

6. Quit Smoking

Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and oral cancer. It also stains your teeth and causes bad breath.

Quit smoking to protect your oral and overall health and reduce your risk of developing serious health conditions such as heart disease and lung cancer.

7. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Visit your dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months, or as recommended by your dentist. Regular dental visits can help detect and treat oral health problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious.

Your dentist can also provide personalized advice on maintaining good oral hygiene.

8. Wear Protective Gear

If you participate in sports or other activities that involve contact or risk of injury, wear a properly fitted mouthguard to protect your teeth and jaw. Mouthguards can help prevent tooth fractures, jaw dislocations, and even concussions.

9. Practice Stress Management

Stress can contribute to a variety of health problems, including oral health problems such as bruxism (teeth grinding) and TMJ disorder (jaw pain).

Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or exercise to minimize stress and promote overall well-being.

10. Follow a Healthy Diet

What you eat can affect your oral health as well as your overall health. Eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.

Avoid snacking between meals and choose healthy snacks such as nuts, cheese, and vegetables instead of sugary or starchy snacks.