No matter how perfect your smile is now, your teeth aren’t guaranteed to look good forever. Your mouth requires constant care and maintenance, and if you neglect your dental hygiene, you will suffer problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. You only get one set of adult teeth, and once they are gone, that’s it. By looking after them when you’re young, you can ensure they will last you right through to old age.
There are many ways to look after your teeth, but there are five essential habits that you absolutely must follow each day.
Brush thoroughly
We’ve all been there. You get home late, you’re tired, and you flop into bed without cleaning your teeth. Doing this just once isn’t going to cause your teeth to fall out instantly, but it’s a slippery slope that can lead to bad habits. Get into the custom of brushing your teeth at the same time every morning and evening. Brush all sides of your teeth thoroughly, right up to the gum line, and ensure you clean for two minutes.
Floss
Most people disregard the importance of flossing, but it is just as essential as brushing. Dental floss allows you to access all parts of the tooth and gum that a brush can’t reach. If you neglect to floss, plaque will build up in between your teeth and can lead to severe gum problems if not addressed. Floss before brushing to free up debris and plaque, resulting in more effective brushing.
Limit sugary snacks
Sugar converts to acid in your mouth and is extremely effective at eroding your enamel and leading to tooth decay. The occasional treat is fine, but constant consumption of unhealthy foods will bring you straight to the dentist’s chair. Fizzy drinks are just as bad for your oral health. For cosmetic reasons, you should also limit your intake of things like black coffee and red wine, which can cause unsightly staining.
Drink plenty of water
Staying hydrated is beneficial for all aspects of your health, and the teeth are no exception. Drinking water after every meal will reduce the damaging effects of sticky and acidic foods until your next brush. Experts recommend you drink eight glasses of water a day.
Use mouthwash
Mouthwash is an excellent supplement to brushing and flossing, as it helps your oral hygiene in three different ways. It reduces the amount of acid in the mouth, it cleans the hard-to-reach areas around your gums, and it provides minerals that help maintain healthy teeth. Use mouthwash at a different time to brushing, as it can negate the effects of your fluoride toothpaste.
Following these daily habits is a fantastic step towards maintaining a lifelong set of white teeth, but it’s not enough. It’s also crucial that you visit a dentist for a checkup every six months. They will be able to spot any problems before they become too severe and advise you on how to improve your cleaning. Dental care can be costly, so you may want to ensure you have a good dental insurance plan. Visit Renaissance Dental Insurance to discuss your options.
