5 Ways To Keep Your Teeth Healthy For Long

Regular oral care is a prime component in keeping your smile healthy and bright. From greater self-confidence to a soaring career, healthy teeth can truly transform the positivity of your mind-set and improve the health of not only your mouth but also your body.

Fortunately, there are simple ways to keep your pearly whites strong and healthy. Here's how:

Yes, You Should Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily

Brushing your teeth is an important part of daily dental-care routine. Keeping the area where your teeth meet your gums clean can prevent gum disease, while keeping your tooth surfaces clean can help keep cavities at bay1. The American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush to maintain good oral health. Also, changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months once is highly recommended if the bristles are frayed2.

Choose The Right Toothpaste

Today, anyone shopping for toothpastes faces an overwhelming array of options. However, when it comes to choosing the right toothpaste for you, it's important to think about your unique oral health needs3. For example, if you have sensitive teeth, using a specialized desensitizing toothpaste, instead of a basic one, which will help you provide greater relief and is safe to use as well.

Flossing Is As Important As Tooth Brushing

Cleaning between your teeth may help prevent cavities and remove plaque. Flossing cleans the areas which are difficult for a toothbrush to reach. It removes the food debris and plaque accumulated between the teeth. The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day4.

Sugar - The Culprit Of Tooth Decay

At every age, a healthy diet is essential for keeping the teeth in a healthy state. However, sugary foods have been known as real culprits of tooth decay. When bacteria in the mouth break down simple sugars, they produce strong acids that can erode the tooth enamel, opening the door to decay of teeth. Hence, it is advisable to cut down on foods and drinks that are high in acids such as sodas5.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Since most oral health problems do not produce any symptoms till they have progressed to a later stage, it is necessary to visit your dentist atleast once in 3-6 months6. A regular dental exam also helps in the diagnosis of gum disease, keeps a check at the early signs of oral cancer, and prevents wear and tear of teeth from tooth grinding7.