Dos and Don’ts to Maintain Healthy Teeth

Caring for one’s teeth isn’t just about keeping them healthy; it also helps ensure that the whole body remains healthy. While there are certain things that people should avoid doing to maintain their oral health, there are also a few things that can be done to maintain good dental hygiene and healthy teeth and gums. Read on.

Do See the Dentist Regularly

Teeth checkups and cleanings are extremely important. A professional cleaning addresses issues before they surface, and it is always good to have a professional take a close look at one’s teeth and gums to spot issues.

Do Floss Every Day

While flossing after every meal is not necessary, it is important to do it at least once a day. Keep in mind that food can get lodged between the teeth, and a toothbrush cannot always take all the gunk out. There are, after all, many areas of the mouth that the toothbrush can’t reach.

Do Brush Twice a Day

Brush a minimum of two times daily, for at least two minutes each time. Rather than brushing vigorously, move the toothbrush in small gentle strokes around the teeth to clean them gently. Make sure to also brush the tongue since bacteria can also build up on the surface of the tongue. Brushing too hard is almost as bad as not brushing enough since it can scratch and wear down the enamel over a period of time. It can also damage the gums.

Don’t Drink Excessive Amounts of Coffee or Soda

This is really tough for a lot of people, given that these drinks are so desirable and addictive. But they can discolor the teeth and eat away the enamel or even cause cavities. The risk is more when one consumes sugar-laden drinks.

Don’t Use the Mouth to Open Things

It may seem silly, but a ton of people make this mistake. If one wants to maintain the integrity of their teeth, it is important that they are not used as tools. So, don’t attempt to bite into a bag or bottle top to tear it open or pry the top apart — doing this can damage the gums and enamel.