By:  Viraj Shah 

If you want to keep your teeth strong and healthy, you must practice good dental hygiene. Paying attention to your dental hygiene daily can have many long-term benefits, so it makes sense to start incorporating the following eight healthy habits into your routine.

Brush at Least Twice a Day

Many people feel that brushing is the important thing you can do to protect your teeth. When you brush, you remove plaque on your teeth, reducing the chances of cavities and gum disease. You should brush for at least two minutes, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Remember to Floss

Flossing is sometimes forgotten, but it shouldn’t be. A toothbrush can only reach so far, and food can often get stuck between your teeth. Floss can enter the nooks and crannies around your teeth, removing plaque and food. Aim to floss once a day.

Change Your Toothbrush Periodically

Keep up the excellent work if you’ve been regularly brushing your teeth. However, take a close look at your toothbrush. Is it frayed or worn down? This could be a sign that you need to replace it. You may need to replace it a few times a year. This way, you’ll be brushing more effectively with firm bristles.

Schedule Check-Ups with the Dentist

You might think your teeth are clean, but some problems aren’t recognized. A trained dentist can assess the health of your teeth and look at X-rays to see if issues aren’t apparent at first glance. Plus, a dental hygienist at the dentist’s office can professionally remove tartar from your teeth that would otherwise be difficult to remove.

Watch What You Eat

Your teeth are protected by enamel, but that enamel is vulnerable. When you eat sugary foods, the bacteria in your mouth will have a lot to feed on, and this can result in increased acid production. This acid can wear down your enamel.

Watch What You Drink

Acidic drinks can wear away at your enamel as well, so try not to drink a lot of sweet sodas and juices. Whenever you indulge and treat yourself to something special, just have some water afterward. Consider rinsing out your mouth with water, if possible, to reduce the acid in your mouth. On that note, remember to drink plenty of water. It can increase saliva production, which neutralizes acids and makes tooth decay less likely.

Don’t Use Tobacco Products

Tobacco use comes with many serious health consequences, and it can also stain your teeth. These stains can be difficult to remove.

Consider Fluoride

Fluoride has been found to be beneficial in many ways. As long as it’s used in moderation, it has the potential to reverse tooth decay, strengthen teeth, and prevent the growth of some kinds of bacteria. Water in many municipalities contains fluoride to help reduce tooth decay in the community. Additionally, dentists often offer fluoride treatments during routine checkups, which can further strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. Toothpaste commonly includes fluoride as an active ingredient, providing daily protection and aiding in the remineralization of enamel. This multi-layered approach ensures that individuals receive consistent fluoride exposure, which is crucial for maintaining dental health.

Published by: Holy Minoza