Oral hygiene is an important aspect of overall health. It is essential to take care of the teeth, gums and tongue to prevent bad breath, tooth decay and gum disease.
However, for those who are busy or simply lazy, maintaining oral hygiene can be a daunting task. Fortunately, there are ways to keep the mouth clean and healthy without putting in too much effort or time.
Brushing Techniques and Tips
Brushing the teeth twice a day for two minutes each time is the gold standard of oral hygiene. However, for those who find it difficult to keep up with this routine, there are a few shortcuts that can help:.
Use an electric toothbrush: An electric toothbrush can make brushing more efficient and require less effort. Many models have built-in timers to ensure that users brush for the recommended two minutes.
Use a toothpaste with fluoride: Fluoride helps to strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities. Look for toothpastes that contain this ingredient for extra protection.
Brush while doing something else: Watching TV, listening to music or talking on the phone while brushing can make the time go by faster and make the task less boring.
Flossing for the Lazy Person
Flossing is an important part of oral hygiene. It removes plaque and food particles from areas that a toothbrush cannot reach. However, many people find it tedious and time-consuming. Here are some flossing tips for the lazy person:.
Use floss picks: Floss picks are disposable tools that make flossing easier and more convenient. They have a small piece of floss attached to a plastic handle and can be used with one hand.
Floss in the shower: Flossing in the shower can save time and be more relaxing. Keep a pack of floss picks in the shower and use them while the conditioner is soaking in.
Floss while watching TV: Watching TV can be a great distraction while flossing. Keep a pack of floss picks on the coffee table and use them during commercial breaks.
Mouthwash Strategies
Mouthwash is a great addition to oral hygiene routine. It freshens breath, kills bacteria and can help prevent cavities. Here are some tips for incorporating mouthwash into a lazy person’s routine:.
Use a pre-measured cup: Most mouthwashes come with a cap that doubles as a measuring cup. Use the cup to measure the correct amount of mouthwash and swish it around for the recommended amount of time.
Use a flavored mouthwash: Mouthwash can be unappetizing, but flavored mouthwashes can make the experience more enjoyable. Mint and cinnamon are popular options.
Swish while doing something else: Just like with brushing, swishing mouthwash while doing a mindless task can make it go by faster. Try swishing while folding laundry or checking social media.
Munch on the Right Foods
Eating the right foods can help promote oral health and reduce the need for excessive brushing and flossing. Here are some lazy-friendly foods:.
Apples and carrots: These crunchy fruits and vegetables can help scrape plaque and food particles off teeth while being satisfying to chew on.
Cheese: Cheese is high in calcium and can help neutralize acid in the mouth, reducing the risk of cavities.
Yogurt: Yogurt is high in probiotics that can help fight bacteria in the mouth.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Finally, the most important aspect of oral hygiene for a lazy person is to visit the dentist regularly. A thorough cleaning by a dental professional can help prevent major problems down the line.
It is recommended to visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.