Five Steps to a Healthier Smile, Says NZ Dental Association

Key Takeaways:

• The NZDA highlights the connection between oral health and emotional well-being.
• Five key habits include brushing twice daily, flossing, limiting sugar, embracing healthy lifestyles, and scheduling annual dental check-ups.
• Poor oral health can lead to pain, stress, and reduced self-esteem.
• Prevention and early detection are emphasized as cost-effective strategies.

NZDA Encourages Better Oral Health Habits

On World Oral Health Day, the New Zealand Dental Association (NZDA) is urging Kiwis to prioritize their oral health by adopting simple yet effective daily habits. Anishma Ram, NZDA Colgate Oral Health Promotion Manager, emphasizes that “small daily actions can lead to a lifetime of healthier smiles and improved overall health and well-being.”

This year’s theme, ‘A happy mouth is a happy mind,’ serves as a reminder of the significant role oral health plays in emotional and mental well-being. Ram notes, “It’s not always appreciated, but there’s a powerful connection between oral health and our emotional and mental well-being.”

Mouths are essential for eating, speaking, and smiling, and their condition can deeply influence how individuals feel and interact with others. “Poor oral health can create considerable pain, stress and anxiety, and also be extremely detrimental on self-esteem and confidence,” she adds.

Five Key Steps for Maintaining a Healthy Mouth

The NZDA has outlined five practical steps that everyone can incorporate into their routines to maintain oral health and promote overall well-being.

Brush Twice Daily

Brushing with fluoridated toothpaste for two minutes, twice a day, forms the foundation of good oral hygiene. This should ideally occur after breakfast and just before bed. For those looking to take their oral care to the next level, keeping a toothbrush at work to clean teeth after lunch is recommended.

Floss Regularly

Flossing is an effective way to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, areas that a toothbrush may not reach. Regular flossing reduces the risk of gum disease, which can have serious implications for oral and systemic health.

Limit Sugar and Increase Water Intake

Diet plays a critical role in oral health. Reducing sugary and carbonated beverages while opting for water can significantly lower the risk of cavities and enamel erosion. According to the World Health Organisation, adults should limit sugar intake to six teaspoons per day, while children should consume no more than three teaspoons daily.

Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle

Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption benefits both oral and overall health. These lifestyle choices contribute to preventing gum disease and other oral health issues, reinforcing the importance of holistic well-being.

Schedule Annual Dental Check-Ups

Regular visits to the dentist are crucial for preventing oral diseases and ensuring early detection of potential problems. As Ram explains, “Prevention and early detection are the best ways to reduce pain in the mouth, and the wallet.”

A Broader Perspective on Oral Health

The NZDA’s campaign underscores the interconnectedness of oral health with broader aspects of physical and mental health. By fostering awareness and encouraging actionable steps, the association aims to empower individuals to take control of their oral hygiene.

Through consistent habits and informed choices, Kiwis can achieve healthier mouths and, in turn, happier lives.