Despite advances in dental care, many people worldwide experience tooth decay. In fact, 1 in 4 adults in the US has untreated tooth decay. You can do many things, not just in your dental care regimen but in your daily life.
Do you feel like your teeth haven’t been looking their best recently? Does it look a little less bright and shiny? Let’s get those sparkling teeth back!
Here are some oral hygiene tips that you can use to keep your teeth and gums clean, healthy, and strong.
1. Brush Your Teeth Before Going to Bed
Brushing your teeth twice daily is a great way to maintain good dental hygiene. Brushing your teeth before bed is especially important. It helps remove food particles or bacteria that may have set in after eating during the day.
Position the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line and brush in gentle circular strokes. Make sure to spend two minutes brushing your teeth, paying attention to every area. Spend 30 seconds on each section of your mouth.
2. Clean Your Tongue
Use a tongue scraper. It is to scrape away bacteria and food particles from the tongue’s surface. Also, brush your tongue with a toothbrush or soft bristles to remove any food particles.
3. Don’t Forget to Floss
Flossing can help reach food particles and plaque in between teeth that brushing can’t reach. It helps strengthen gums, too, for better oral hygiene. It should be done daily but be gentle to avoid damaging your gums.
4. Use A Mouthwash
Mouthwash alone is insufficient to maintain optimal mouth and teeth health. Use it in combination with regular brushing and flossing.
Be wary of the type of mouthwash you are using, as some contain alcohol which can irritate your gums and mouth. So, if you want to make your pearly whites sparkle, use mouthwash in your daily routine and rinse.
5. Drink More Water
Water is an important component of oral hygiene. It helps to reduce the amount of saliva in the mouth. It can also help to flush away food particles and other debris that can get stuck between the teeth.
6. Avoid Food Rich in Sugar and Acid
Foods high in sugar can lead to cavities. The acid in some foods can erode the protective enamel layer of the teeth. Both lead to teeth sensitivity and discoloration, which isn’t great for oral health.
7. Use The Right Toothpaste
Choosing the right toothpaste is important for keeping your teeth happy and healthy. Consider different types of toothpaste. Some are for sensitive teeth, whitening, tartar control, natural toothpaste, and more.
Start Using These Oral Hygiene Tips
One of the best ways to keep your smile looking perfect and your pearly whites sparkling is to practice good oral hygiene. Use these oral hygiene tips to achieve that perfect smile.
Remember to reduce your consumption of sugary and acidic foods. Make sure to replace your toothbrush every three months, and quit smoking. Taking the time to follow these steps every day will help you keep your teeth and gums healthy.
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