It takes a lifetime of care to achieve healthy teeth, but that does not mean it cannot be achieved. It takes an everyday routine of good oral steps and habits like getting the right dental products and being careful of what you eat to keep your teeth healthy and prevent problems from setting in. If you need more helpful tips or you need a Bromley dental practice, get in touch with us for more information.
11 helpful tips to keep your teeth healthy
Always brush properly
It is not just enough to brush your teeth; it is essential that you brush them well. Basically, a poor brushing habit is as bad as not brushing at all. When brushing your teeth, you must take your time so that you can get to all corners and areas to remove plaque and particles. If the plaque is not removed, it can harden and lead to calculus build-up or gingivitis.
Use a fluoride toothpaste
When picking a toothpaste, do not just go for toothpaste that has whitening properties or good flavours. Instead, choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride; it fights germs and protects your teeth from cavities and plaque.
Look for ways to make flossing easier
Flossing can be a difficult task, especially for children, adults with arthritis and those wearing braces. Instead of giving up entirely, look for ways that will make the experience easier. Some tools can make flossing easier, and they include ready-to-use dental flossers.
Drink more water
For general health and oral health, water remains the best beverage and drink. Water washes away the negative effects of sticky or acidic foods and beverages stuck in the teeth. As a rule of thumb, it is advised that you drink water after every meal.
Reduce or eliminate the consumption of sugary or acidic foods
When consumed, the sugary foods turn to acid in the mouth, eroding the teeth enamel. It is the acid from foods that cause cavities. You do not necessarily have to eliminate these acidic foods from your diet; you can only minimise your intake level. Examples of acidic foods include tea, coffee, acidic fruits, etc.
Brush before going to bed daily
It is a well-known fact that you should brush your teeth twice daily. Brushing twice daily means brushing in the morning and at night before retiring for the day. Even with this piece of information, many people still neglect to brush their teeth at night before going to bed. Brushing before bed has its benefits, as it helps to get rid of germs and particles that must have accumulated during the day.
Clean your tongue
When brushing and cleaning your teeth, you must clean your tongue too. The teeth are not the only place that plaque and particles settle on. Plaque and bacteria can also settle on the tongue, and this can cause a foul smell from the mouth, which is sometimes referred to as mouth odour. When you brush every day, also clean your tongue to get rid of particles, plaque and bacteria.
See flossing as an essential part of the dental routine
A lot of people fail to understand that flossing is just as important as brushing. As a result of this, they can brush but may not floss. In some ways, flossing can be more important than brushing because it removes particles stuck between the teeth – it also stimulates the gums, reduces inflammation of the gums, and reduces plaque.
Think of mouthwash
Many people skip mouthwash because they feel it is either unnecessary or they do not know how they work. Mouthwash helps oral health in three ways;
- They clean up areas that are hard to brush in and around the gums
- They re-mineralise the teeth
- They reduce the amount of acid in the mouth
Finally, mouthwash is essential, especially when the ability to brush may not be ideal. They are also helpful for children and those with sensitive teeth.
Eat more crunchy fruits and vegetables
Eating crunchy fruits and foods that you will have to bite down on is very convenient and helpful. For example, biting or chewing crunchy fruits keeps the jaws working. Additionally, crunchy foods and fruits serve as an abrasive that removes surface stains on the enamel. Finally, crunchy fruits and food contain more healthy fibre for the mouth.
Visit your dentist regularly
Even if you follow all the dental rules to the latter, you will still have to visit your dentist at least twice a year. It does not matter if you are the most dutiful brusher or flosser; you should see your dentist for a check-up and cleaning twice a year. Besides routine check-ups, seeing a dentist is important because they will be able to spot any dental issues or problems earlier on.
Some dental companies offer insurance that covers more frequent dental appointments with your dentist; if that is the case for you, you should consider taking advantage of it, especially if you have a history of dental issues.
Find out all you need to know about keeping your dental health in top-notch condition when you contact us at Smile 4 U. Get across to us via phone call or send an email.
