Healthy dental habits have also been shown to lower the risk for some cardiovascular issues and even help slow the onset of Alzheimer’s. The key is consistency and routine care. 

A healthy mouth, teeth, and gums and can save you both the pain and money of corrective dental visits and give you a winning smile. It is easier than you think and the rewards last a lifetime.

Read on for how to take care of your teeth with these 7 habits.  

1. Brush Your Teeth: 2 for 2 

You need to brush your teeth at least two times a day for two minutes each time. If you can, it is even better to brush after each meal.

One of those times should ideally be just before bed. You want to make sure all the food particles and bacteria are completely removed from your teeth before sleeping for several hours. 

Plaque builds up over time and opens the way for tooth decay and gum disease. The cleaner your mouth is the better your overall health. 

You should also use a fluoride-based toothpaste or mouth rinse as it is known to help in the fight against tooth decay. 

2. Don’t Forget to Floss

Flossing is another step that many people skip, but it is just as important as brushing. Even the most dedicated brushers don’t hit all the little hidden spots on their teeth.  

You might think it takes too much time or is hard, but flossing is easy and an effective way to get rid of extra particles of food stuck between your teeth. 

Make sure to gently slide the floss around each tooth, including the molars. It only takes a few minutes but the rewards will be long-lasting. 

3. How to Take Care of Your Teeth – Invest in Orthodontic Care

Even with the best care, everyone does not have straight teeth. Crooked or misaligned teeth not long look bad but create issues with chewing and jaw problems. They are also harder to clean. 

The good news is there are many options for orthodontic care for all ages. Braces are not just for teenagers anymore. With financing available and ways for them to almost be invisible, there is no reason why anyone has to suffer from crooked teeth. 

You should always consult with a professional and search for an orthodontist near me to get the best advice and treatment. 

4. Be Mindful of the Foods You Eat

Even with proper brushing and flossing, the foods you eat do make a difference. 

A diet high in sugar and carbs is harmful to your teeth. Sugar feeds the bacteria that cause plaque. The longer the sugar remains on the teeth, the larger the risk. 

Sodas, candy, and other foods with a high sugar content should be limited. Soda especially is a double hit with sugar and acid. If possible, brush well after eating these foods or drinks. 

Make sure to get plenty of calcium as well. Calcium is great for teeth and forms a protective layer around them. Milk is a great source, but for those who can’t tolerate milk, there are calcium supplements as well. 

While they are no substitute for brushing, eating crunchy foods will help clean teeth too. Apples, carrots, and other such raw fruits and vegetables work to clean the teeth and gums and also keep the jaw strong. 

4. No Smoking

Everyone knows the main risks associated with smoking, but many forget it is also harmful to the mouth. Smokers develop gum disease at almost twice the rate as non-smokers. 

Cigarette and smokeless tobacco cause issues with tooth decay, discoloration, and dry mouth. Salvia is nature’s built-in defense system to help with tooth decay and gum disease. 

On the more serious side, these substances can cause tooth loss and even oral cancer. If you care about your teeth, this is one habit you need to quit. 

5. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is a great cleanser. It doesn’t take the place of brushing and flossing, but it does help wash away loose food particles. 

Drinking water throughout the day has many health benefits. One side benefit is that of keeping your mouth fresh and clean. If you are unable to brush after a meal, have a drink of water. It will help. 

6. Use Mouth Guards

One might not think of mouth guards as important dental hygiene but think again. 

If you or your children participate in sports, it is important to wear a mouthguard. It is too easy for one wrong move to result in the loss of a tooth or even more serious damage. 

Guards are also helpful for those who grind their teeth while sleeping. This is an involuntary action but will cause real harm to the teeth and even gums. If serious enough, it will lead to TMJ. 

7. Schedule Regular Dental Appointments

Good oral hygiene is a team effort. You have to do your part at home, but you also need the help of your dentist. 

You should schedule regular dental exams and cleanings at least twice a year. Exams are a good way for your doctor to see and track potential signs of trouble that can be addressed. 

Professional cleanings are that extra boost of plaque removal and overall deeper clean. They can even provide special fluoride or whitening treatments. 

Your dentist is your partner in the overall goal of a healthy mouth. Together you can stay on top of issues and keep those pearly whites shining. 

Habits for Healthy Teeth

Everyone wants a bright smile and healthy teeth and mouth. However, those things don’t just happen without a little effort and you need to know how to take care of your teeth. 

It doesn’t take a lot of time to care for your teeth, but you do need to be in the habit of doing the little things every day. Brush, floss, drink plenty of water and watch the sugar intake. See your dentist on a regular basis and consult with an orthodontist as needed. 

We are your one-stop hub for amazing viral news on topics ranging from lifestyle, business, health, and entertainment. Bookmark our page and return often.