10 Best Practices for Healthy Teeth and Gums

The health of your teeth and gums can be a challenge because tooth decay can start as early as the first day of life. So how do you stay healthy? This article will give you some ideas on how you can take care of your teeth and gums so that they remain strong.

1. Brush at least twice a day

Brushing your teeth will help keep your mouth clean and may help to prevent tooth decay. Brushing after eating also helps to remove food particles that can stick to teeth and stimulate the growth of bacteria. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time.

Another way to protect your teeth and gums is by using fluoride. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water and foods. Dentists recommend drinking tap water and eating foods made with fluoridated water, such as fruit juices, bread, cereals, and dairy products. You can also use fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash.

2. Eat healthy foods

You can help to keep your teeth healthy by eating a wide variety of foods. Some of the best choices are those that have little or no sugar and little or no salt. However, you may need mouthwash to help get rid of plaque. And an antiseptic mouthwash such as Listerine® is a good choice.

3. Avoid sugary drinks

Sugary drinks are one of the most harmful things you can drink. This is because sugars in these drinks stick to your teeth and lead to tooth decay. If you drink sodas, fruit juices, or other sweetened liquids, make sure you brush your teeth afterwards.

4. Don’t smoke

Smoking damages the tissues in your mouth and can lead to gum disease and tooth loss. Chemicals in tobacco smoke also irritate the gums, making your mouth more susceptible to plaque and tooth decay. In addition, smoking causes teeth to become yellow and can also cause tooth loss.

5. See a dentist regularly

A meaningful way to help keep your teeth healthy is to visit a dentist regularly. Your dentist or dental hygienist will check your gums for signs of periodontal disease and advise on how you can improve your oral hygiene. A dentist will also be able to treat any dental problems you may have and let you know how much is Invisalign.

6. Use an antiseptic mouthwash

An antiseptic mouthwash is another tool that can help keep your teeth, gums, and tongue healthy. Many types of oral cancer have been linked to the bacteria H. pylori, which may cause the pain associated with acid reflux. Mouthwash may kill these bacteria without the inconvenience of swallowing medication.

Some mouthwashes contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth and crack your teeth. So it’s a good idea to rinse twice with plain water after using an antiseptic mouthwash. You can also rub a mild antiseptic lotion, such as benzoyl peroxide, into your gums and lips after rinsing and before brushing your teeth.

7. Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwashes

Alcohol-based mouthwash can irritate your skin and cause dryness of the throat, which can lead to periodontal disease. So the next time you have a sore throat, try using an appropriate soothing mouthwash instead.

8. Reduce sweets and starchy foods

If you have painful areas of dental decay, your dentist may instruct you to avoid sweets and starchy foods. These foods can reduce the pH in your mouth and cause erosion of enamel on your teeth. Foods that may be recommended include applesauce, pancakes, noodles, and mashed potatoes. You need to be sure to rinse your mouth with plain water after eating these foods.

9.Use a fluoride rinse

A fluoride rinse helps strengthen tooth enamel. This is because it makes the surface of your teeth smoother and less likely to break down. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children ages 1–3 need to use an amount equal to a grain of rice. Children ages 3–6 should use an amount equal to a pea. Children ages 6–16 should use more, about the size of a pea.

10. Use an antiseptic mouthwash

A mouthwash can help keep the bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay at bay. After brushing, rinse your mouth with a mixture of 1 teaspoon of baking soda and two teaspoons of water. You can also use four drops of Listerine® in a cup of water. Some adults find these herbs helpful too. Choose one and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing.

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Conclusion

There are many things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy. It’s important to brush your teeth thoroughly, use mouthwash, and eat a wide variety of nutritious foods.