Today, people are busier than ever. We always seem to be on the go or have somewhere to be or something else to do. Life can get hectic, I get it. However, don’t let life get so busy, that your smile or your health suffers as a result. It’s important to maintain healthy teeth and gums, because not doing so can lead to other, sometimes serious, health problems. So do yourself a favor and take care of your smile.
There are lots of ways to maintain healthy, clean teeth.These are just a few things that you can easily implement over time that will brighten your smile. Your teeth and gums will thank you for it.
Brush your teeth twice daily every day. It’s best to brush after meals to gently scrub away food particles. However, some people prefer to brush in the morning when they wake up and again at night just before bed.
Keep to regular dental check-ups with your dentist practicing general dentistry in Epsom Auckland.
This is particularly important. A regular check up will help you stay on top of any potential problems as they arise. Preventive care is best.
Avoid or limit sugary drinks including fruit juices. Coffee is a notorious tooth stainer, but most of us drink it everyday anyway. If this sounds like you, then do yourself a favor and follow up your morning cup of ‘joe’ with a good oral rinse.
Don’t negate the benefits of regular cleanings. Having your teeth cleaned regularly will keep that smile brighter longer.
Use a straw. If you must drink soft drinks or other sugary drinks, do so with a straw. This will keep each sip from washing over your teeth as it enters your mouth.
Don’t forget to floss. Too many people will brush, but not floss. That is one thing that has never quite sat right in my mind. You see, flossing might seem tedious, but it removes food particles stuck between the teeth that often times your toothbrush can not fully remove.
Use a whitening toothpaste once or twice weekly to help remove surface stains.
Brush with baking soda once a week to help fight stains and brighten your smile.
Brush and/or rinse after eating or drinking sugary, or acidic foods.
Don’t forget touch-up cleanings.
Watch how you grip your toothbrush. If the bristles of your toothbrush look like they’ve just scrubbed a wall, chances are you’re probably brushing too hard. Use a 45 degree angle and go gently.
While black tea can lead to surface stains, it also contains antioxidants that help fight cavities by interfering with some harmful bacteria and preventing it from sticking to your teeth. One cup of unsweetened tea a day is enough to gain the benefit.
Use an alcohol-free fluoride rinse after brushing and flossing.
Milk and water are great alternatives to sugary drinks.
Munch on crunchy whole foods like carrots, celery, and fruits in lieu of junk food and sugary sweets.
If you must chew gum, chew on gum that is sugar free and approved by the ADA.
Drink your water for good health as well as an excellent way to wash bad bacteria off your teeth and gums throughout the day.
Avoid chewing tobacco or smoking.
Avoid or limit alcoholic beverages.
Don’t forget to brush your tongue.
I'm just your average hygienist with a passion for excellence. I do what I do best, which is to help my patients achieve healthy smiles and provide & educate them with oral health care solutions and lifelong cosmetic procedures.