Your teeth are one of the most important things in life because they affect everything else in your body including digestion, speech, and even moods. They also affect your appearance which might not seem like a big deal but it can be if you don’t take care of them properly. Teeth give people their first impression so make sure they’re good ones!
There are many reasons to invest some time into caring for your pearly whites – both now and throughout your lifetime – so read on below to find out more.
Brush and Floss Everyday
The most important thing you can do for your teeth is to brush and floss correctly every single day. Plague – a sticky film of bacteria – builds up on teeth over time and if it’s not removed, it can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. Use fluoride toothpaste when brushing as this will help to strengthen the enamel and protect against cavities. Aim to brush for two minutes at least twice a day, using circular, back-and-forth, and up-and-down motions.
As for flossing, make sure to do this once a day as well to remove any plaque in between the teeth that your toothbrush couldn’t reach. Be careful not to snap the floss into your gums as this can cause them to bleed. Instead, use a light back-and-forth motion to get rid of plaque build-up.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Depending on your oral health, you should visit the dentist every six months to get a professional cleaning. These cleanings remove any tartar – hardened plaque – that has developed on the teeth over time. Your dentist will also check for any signs of gum disease or tooth decay and can offer advice on how to improve your oral health routine.
A dentist can also advise on wearing braces, as crooked teeth can be difficult to clean properly and are more likely to get cavities. If you need a teeth aligner, make sure to research products and the process, as the article at https://finvsfin.com/newsmile-reviews/ shows. These kinds of fixtures are nowadays more affordable and easy to get than they’ve ever been.
Have in mind that dentists can also recommend other treatments such as teeth whitening or veneers if you’re unhappy with the appearance of your smile.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Your diet plays a big role in oral health so it’s important to watch what you eat and drink. Avoid sugary foods and drinks as much as possible as these can cause cavities. When you do eat or drink something sweet, make sure to brush your teeth afterward.
Chewing sugarless gum, for example, is a great way to promote oral health as it increases saliva flow, which helps to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth. It’s also important to eat plenty of crunchy fruits and vegetables as this helps to clean the teeth while you’re eating them.
Drinking lots of water is also beneficial for oral health as it helps to flush out plaque and bacteria. You can also use mouthwash – preferably one with fluoride in it – to help keep your mouth clean.
Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol
Smoking and drinking alcohol can both harm oral health. Smoking, in particular, is one of the leading causes of tooth loss as it increases the risk of gum disease and tooth decay. If you do smoke, make sure to brush your teeth regularly and visit the dentist more often to keep an eye on your oral health.
On the other hand, drinking alcohol can also lead to tooth decay as it’s often high in sugar. If you do drink, aim to do so in moderation and make sure to avoid sugary mixers.
Keep Away From Physical Damage
Finally, it’s important to avoid physical damage to your teeth as much as possible. This means not using your teeth as tools – such as opening bottles or tearing open packaging – and being careful when playing sports. Always wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports to protect your teeth from being knocked out or chipped.
It’s also important to be careful when eating hard foods as this can crack or chip teeth. Also, avoid biting your nails as this can damage the enamel.
Your teeth are an important part of your appearance and oral health so it’s important to take care of them. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your teeth will last a lifetime. Remember to brush and floss regularly, visit the dentist for cleanings and check-ups, and watch what you eat and drink. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, and be careful of physical damage to your teeth.
With proper care, your teeth will stay healthy and look great for years to come!