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Are you dreading your next visit to the dentist?
If so, you aren’t alone! A large percentage of Americans are living with dental conditions like tooth decay and gum disease, which can make your visit costly and uncomfortable and lead to more severe conditions like tooth loss.
But, not to worry. These oral health issues are easy to prevent with a bit of extra care and good hygiene habits.
Keep reading for five simple tips for healthy teeth and gums.
1. Brush Well and Often
The first step when it comes to healthy teeth and gums is proper brushing.
Whether you use a traditional or electric toothbrush, you’ll want to give those pearly whites a scrub twice a day, for at least two minutes. Take your time, giving each tooth a gentle cleaning. And, don’t forget to brush your tongue, too.
Never go to sleep without brushing, as brushing before bed is critical to removing the germs and plaque that have accumulated throughout the day.
2. Don’t Forget to Floss
How often do you really floss your teeth?
Flossing is just as important as brushing, yet, many people skip it entirely. Not only will flossing keep your smile looking great, but it can also stimulate the gums, reduce plaque buildup, and help lower inflammation.
If you find flossing difficult, try using individual ready-to-use flossers or a water pick.
3. Use Proper Products
To maintain healthy teeth and gums, you’ll need to use effective oral hygiene products.
Choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride, to bolster your defenses against tooth decay. This powerful dental mainstay fights off the germs that can lead to decay. And, it helps build a protective barrier for your teeth.
For extra protection, consider adding mouthwash to your daily routine. This powerful liquid cleaner can reduce the amount of acid in your mouth, clean hard-to-brush areas between teeth and around the gums, and re-mineralize your teeth, helping to build healthy enamel.
4. Drink This, Not That
If you’re wondering how to keep your teeth healthy, consider what you drink every day.
Sugar is quickly converted into acid in the mouth, which can erode enamel and lead to cavities. So, soda is one of the worst drinks for your dental health. Acidic beverages like coffee and tea can also wear down tooth enamel when consumed on a daily basis.
Water is the best beverage for your overall health, and it’s essential for a sparkling smile. Drinking water after every meal can help to rinse away sticky and acidic food and drinks in between brushing, supporting a cleaner mouth overall.
5. See Your Dentist Every Six Months
Do you already have a family dentist?
Twice a year visits are one of the most important steps you can take to improved oral health. And, if you get into the routine of visiting your dentist more frequently, your visits will become less costly and uncomfortable.
Don’t wait until you’re experiencing tooth pain or visible signs of decay to make your next appointment! By then, you could already have experienced significant damage.
Healthy Teeth Start Here
Now that you’re armed with these top tips for healthy teeth and gums, your next dentist appointment should be a breeze! And, if you maintain these positive oral hygiene habits, you’ll be flashing a flawless smile for years to come.
If you found this article helpful, don’t miss out on our other content. Our web guides are packed with tips for health, fitness, diet and nutrition, and more!
