Good hygiene is essential for maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.
Without proper care, problems with your teeth and gums can cause pain, disrupting your daily activities.
The mouth is the gateway to health. By taking care of your teeth and gums, you automatically improve your overall health!
1. Brush Your Teeth Regularly
Brushing your teeth regularly is the simplest way to care for your teeth. This habit helps to keep your teeth clean and healthy by removing plaque and bacteria from the surface. However, brushing your teeth is only effective if done with the correct technique. Make sure to brush twice a day for two minutes—once in the morning after breakfast and again before bed.
2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Dental care isn’t just about the routine itself. It also involves choosing the right toothpaste. Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride. This ingredient strengthens the teeth and helps prevent cavities.
3. Flossing or Cleaning Between Your Teeth
If you're diligent about brushing your teeth, flossing should also be a part of your routine. Flossing helps to remove plaque and bacteria from between your teeth, areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing also helps to prevent bad breath by removing trapped food and debris between your teeth.
4. Brush Your Tongue
Besides brushing your teeth, cleaning your tongue regularly is essential. The back of your tongue is a moist area where bacteria tend to thrive, and food particles often accumulate.
5. Use Mouthwash
Mouthwash, although it can’t replace brushing or flossing, can help control plaque and gum inflammation when it contains chlorhexidine. It also helps combat bad breath, so it’s a helpful addition to your care routine.
6. Replace Your Toothbrush Regularly
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends using a toothbrush with soft bristles and replacing it every three months or when the bristles are frayed. Worn-out bristles are less effective at cleaning teeth and can harm the protective layers of your teeth and gums.
7. Store Your Toothbrush Properly
Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing and store it upright to allow it to dry properly. Make sure it’s stored separately from other toothbrushes to avoid cross-contamination. Avoid covering the toothbrush or storing it in a closed container for long periods, as this can cause bacteria and fungi to grow.
8. Limit Sugary Foods and Drinks
Limiting sugary foods and drinks is essential for keeping your teeth healthy. Consuming high-sugar items can lead to cavities.
9. Drink Plenty of Water and Eat Healthy Foods
Drinking water after eating sweet foods and drinks helps wash away any sugar residue. Additionally, consume more nutritious and balanced foods, especially fruits with high water content
10. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Regular check-ups with your dentist are a crucial part of dental care. It’s recommended to visit your dentist every six months to help prevent tooth damage and gum disease.
11. Remove Tartar
Tartar removal is essential for eliminating hardened plaque. Tartar forms when plaque is left untreated and hardens over time.
12. Use Pit and Fissure Sealants
Pit and fissure sealants are dental treatments that involve coating the inside surfaces of your teeth to protect them from damage.
These are the essential dental care practices you should incorporate into your daily life. By regularly maintaining your dental health, you can prevent a range of dental problems and ensure that your teeth remain clean and healthy!
8 Ways To Keep Your Teeth Healthy
Video by Medical Centric
