You know the drill. Brush and brush more. Taking care of your teeth should be something we are accustomed to. However, you would be surprised to learn how many people don’t wash their teeth regularly.
Well, the best Ft Lauderdale dentist recommends different things for you to maintain a healthy smile. Therefore, this list compiles some of the main things you can do every day to keep that smile bright white for good. As an adult, you may need some things as whiteners, but other than that, it’s perfectly easy to reduce cavities and get those pearly whites shining like new and keep them that way!
- Brushing Twice is Nice
You can use a manual or electric toothbrush, but brushing at least two times a day for two minutes each time helps remove plaque and strengthens enamel. - Mental Floss
Think about flossing your teeth at least once a day before bed. Do it right before bed after you brush your teeth, then use mouthwash or rinse your mouth out to remove extra plaque and food pieces. - Brushing Your Tongue
It’s funny, but most bacteria that cause bad breath and which eats tooth enamel lingers on your tongue. Brush it or scrape it with a tongue scraper before bed to reduce morning breath and bad breath (You can do this every time you brush).
Img source: stumpblog.com - Fluoride Isn’t THAT Bad
Despite all of the fluoride scares, you’re better off using a fluoride toothpaste. For children, just use a smaller amount about half the size of a pea to avoid fluoride poisoning. - Chew Gum
Extra saliva helps destroy bacteria on its own. Trident was telling the truth about chewing Trident after a meal. - Hydration
When you stay hydrated, you actually lower the acidity of your saliva and it helps to act as a PH balancing agent, diluting caffeinated drinks and the acids they contain.
Img source: naturawhite.com - Smoking is Bad Mmmkay?
No really. Smoking cigarettes dries your mouth out, as well as can cause gum disease. It also causes teeth stains, and even depletes calcium in your body which can damage your teeth. It can also cause gum disease and gingivitis. - Snack Healthier
Try eating snacks like fresh fruit, nuts, cheeses, and even vegetable. If you don’t have a peanut butter allergy, try eating celery with peanut butter for a great healthy snack that’s also packed with protein.
Img source: gotham.tech - See a Dentist Bi-annually
Make sure you see your dentist (or any) twice a year for cleaning and if necessary, whitening. They will also check for cavities and fill them if necessary to avoid any infection. - Don’t Use the Same Toothbrush Too Long
Once the bristles start to splay apart, or after 3 months, and even when a strong virus is done running its course is a good time to change your toothbrush. If your toothbrush is still in excellent condition, you’re either not brushing enough, or taking really good care of it. In this case, it’s a great idea that at least once a month, put your toothbrush in boiling water for at least 1 minute, but no more than 3 (you don’t want it to melt). This will get rid of any lingering bacteria, and deep clean every fiber of your bristles.
