Healthy teeth demand consistent and uncompromising care. If you have solid, shining teeth right now, they will not stay like that on their own. You need optimal home care while following proper measures to avoid future problems.

Taking care of your teeth includes: following the necessary dental hygiene practices, being conscious of your everyday routines, avoiding high sugar foods/beverages and seeing your dentist regularly.

1. Brush before going to bed.

• Chances are, you already know this. But take this as a reminder. Brushing
  your teeth twice every day is the most shared advice of our generation. Yet, plenty of us choose to skip cleaning our teeth at this frequency
• Brushing teeth before bedtime removes bacteria and food that has built up throughout the day.

2. Don’t ignore cleaning your tongue.

• Debris and residue accumulate on our tongue. Most of the bad breath that you complain about comes from bacteria feeding on this tongue residue
• You can use a medical-grade metal or plastic tongue cleaner, also known as a “tongue scraper”.

3. Choose the right toothpaste.

• People sell and buy toothpaste based on its whitening capacity and taste. But that should not be your primary concerns.
• Toothpaste is supposed to clean your teeth and reach all the nooks and crannies of your mouth.
• There is special toothpaste for people with sensitive teeth.
• There is special toothpaste for people with gum disease.
• There is special toothpaste for people at high risk of developing cavities
• Go for toothpaste that is gentle on your teeth and does not hurt the enamel.
• Beware of certain “all natural” toothpastes as they can be much more abrasive than your typical toothpaste and hard on your enamel. If in doubt, ask your dentist.

4. Flossing is crucial.

• Many people who clean their teeth daily skip flossing.
• We tend to forget that flossing is way more than just removing food particles remaining on our teeth.
• Flossing stimulates the gums, eliminates/disrupts bacteria, and protects the teeth and gums from infection.
• It’s important to remember to floss between the teeth and advance the floss gently under the gums of each tooth.

5. Use the right mouthwash.

• Mouthwash neutralizes acidity in the oral cavity.
• Disinfects the nooks and crannies in the mouth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach.
• It also supplies mineral content to the teeth and strengthens them.
• It also helps freshen breath especially if used after brushing and flossing
• You can always ask your dentist to suggest the best mouthwash for your specific condition.

6. Fresh vegetables and natural foods always help.

• Fast foods are also very quick to hurt your teeth. Typically these foods are high in starch and sugar, therefore, it would be best to opt for natural food items.
• The natural fiber in fruits and vegetables helps in the cleansing the teeth and releases essential minerals.
• Chewing harder food items such as carrots, radish, and even pears help stimulate the gums and also works as the perfect exercise for the jaw.

7. Sugar and acids are bad for your teeth.

• Tooth enamel despises acids. Acids released from sugar digestion attacks the enamel causing sensitivity and cavities.
• You should not eat high sugar foods at night such as chocolates, cookies and ice cream.
• Excessive caffeine and carbonated drinks can be extremely hard on the teeth as they are often high in sugar and acids. You should avoid these, especially at night.

8. Your dentist can save your teeth.

• Everyday mindfulness is crucial, but you should visit a dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and check-ups. Over time your teeth will collect deposits and you will need expert care to remove it thoroughly.
• By seeing your dentist regularly, you can avoid or minimize any future dental issues.

Visiting a local dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning is a great idea. Your dentist can perform a comprehensive examination and let you know of any oral health issues and recommend options to rectify those concerns.