20 November 2018
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

Your teeth are a vital part of your body. They help you express yourself through smiles and allow you to chew your food. It's important to take good care of your teeth since they're the only ones you'll ever get. Here are four tips to help you keep your teeth healthy:

1. Use the right toothbrush.

Everyone knows you should brush your teeth twice a day. You may not know that the toothbrush you use makes a difference. The American Dental Association recommends using a toothbrush with soft bristles. Soft bristles clean your teeth just as well as firmer bristles, and they are gentler on your gums. Remember to brush with a circular motion and don't press too hard. Brushing with excessive force can cause bleeding and gum erosion.

2. Avoid sugary foods.

Sugar is the leading cause of tartar buildup. Left unchecked, tartar forms a hard substance called plaque which can lead to cavities and tooth decay. Protect your teeth by limiting your consumption of sweets such as candy, cookies, and cake. If you do indulge in dessert, try to do so right after a meal and brush your teeth when you're done. If you can't brush your teeth, at least rinse your mouth out with clear water.

3. Don't open things with your teeth.

You may be tempted to open a can of soda or a bag of chips with your teeth, but you should use your hands instead. Although teeth are durable under normal circumstances, you don't want to apply too much force to them. Teeth weren't meant to be used as tools to lever things open, and using them improperly can lead to chipped teeth and other damage. Do your mouth a favor and stick to using your hands instead.

4. Visit the dentist regularly.

In order to keep your teeth healthy, you should be visiting your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning. Your dentist has specialized tools that are better at removing stubborn plaque than your toothbrush at home. This routine maintenance is key to supplementing the cleaning you do between visits. Once a year, your dentist will x-ray your mouth to check for cavities that can't be detected with the naked eye. This allows them to catch cavities early, while the cavities are easy to treat.

Taking care of your teeth isn't hard, but it requires diligence and consistency. These four tips will help you keep your teeth healthy so you can enjoy them for the rest of your life.