Maintaining good dental health and an attractive smile is integral to maintaining overall health and extending its beauty for years. By taking good care of your teeth, you can keep that beautiful smile looking its best for longer!
I’m all about caring for your mind, body, and soul, but I must admit I should take better care of my oral health. Now that I’m a mom, I am stressing the importance of oral health, and I wanted to post these little reminders.
Here Are 10 Tips For Taking Better Care Of Your Teeth:
1. Brush Your Teeth Twice Each Day For At Least Two Minutes Each Time
Brushing your teeth helps remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste for best results in this task; they should gently scrub all surfaces of all teeth, including backs and sides, as well as the tongue. Don’t forget your tongue! Here’s an excellent tongue scraper for adults and kids.
Here are some toothbrushes you might want to try:
- Phillips One by Sonicare Rechargeable Toothbrush
- Oral-B CrossAction All In One Soft Toothbrush
- Sonicare for Kids Design a Pet Edition
- Colgate Kids Battery Powered Toothbrush
2. Floss Regularly
Regular flossing can help remove food debris caught between your teeth and along your gum line, which is difficult to access with brushing alone. Place 18 inches of floss between your middle fingers, wrapping each end around an index finger. Gently guide it between every tooth using an up-and-down motion while gently curving and sliding it against each tooth in a C shape before gently sliding up and down its sides as necessary.
3. Switch To Antiseptic Mouthwash
Using antiseptic mouthwash can be an effective way to combat plaque build-up and bad breath bacteria. Swill a tablespoon of mouthwash around for 30 seconds before spitting it out – do this twice daily for optimal results!
Here are some antiseptic mouthwashes you can try. I use the Orajel brand, and it works great.
- Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash
- Listerine Total Care
- Orajel Antiseptic Mouth Sore Rinse
- TheraBreath Healthy Gums Periodontist Formulated 24-Hour Oral Rinse with CPC, Clean Mint
4. Stay Away From Sugary Beverages And Snacks
Sugary foods and drinks are one of the primary contributors to tooth decay, so limiting your consumption is one way to protect your smile from damage. Drink more water as possible instead, or if you must indulge, rinse after eating something sweet with water to rinse away any sugar residues left behind.
5. Avoid Smoking
Smoking increases your risk for gum disease and oral cancer and contributes to bad breath and yellowed teeth. If you want to help to quit smoking permanently, talk with your physician about ways that could assist in breaking this habit for good.
6. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular dental visits are vital in keeping your smile in good health. Be sure to visit at least twice annually or as your provider recommends. Your dentist will perform exams that examine for cavities, inspect gums and restorations, and any required repairs.
7. Consider Clear Aligners
Consider investing in clear aligners to straighten your teeth without metal braces. See how clear aligners work as these custom-fitted plastic trays fit securely around your teeth and gradually shift them into ideal positions over time.
8. Be Mindful When Using Your Teeth.
Avoid using your teeth as tools, such as to open packages and bottles, since this can damage the enamel and result in chips or cracks on your tooth surface. Your teeth should only ever be used for biting and chewing food!
With these tips in mind, you will quickly be on your way to better oral health in no time! Remember that taking care of your teeth should be an ongoing process; stick to a regimented schedule and visit your dentist frequently for checkups – good luck!
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