After you lose your baby teeth, the teeth that grow in are those that you’ll be stuck with for the rest of your life. There isn’t another set that will magically grow in if you lose an adult tooth. Because of that, it’s vital that you maintain excellent oral health. While there are always measures to make up for missing teeth, the first line of defense should always be to protect your own natural teeth. This article will offer up a few tips on how you can prevent tooth decay and maintain a brilliant and beautiful smile.
Regular Brushing
Perhaps one of the most obvious methods of preventing tooth decay is to brush your teeth. However, how much you brush your teeth and for how long is just as important. Typically, you should brush your teeth twice a day. Preferably, you would brush your teeth every time you ate. Since that isn’t always the easiest of things to do for all people, brushing at least twice a day typically prevents tooth decay from occurring. Besides just brushing regularly, you also need to brush for the correct amount of time. With a pea-sized amount of toothpaste, you should brush your teeth for about two minutes. Don’t just brush your teeth either. Also take the time to brush your gums and tongue, too.
Floss Often
Another vital part of your oral care is to floss your teeth. This is perhaps even more important than brushing your teeth. After all, brushing can’t always remove the bits of food that have collected between your teeth. Flossing can break down any plaque that may have built up between your teeth. It also keeps your gums healthy. Interestingly enough, some researchers and scientists have even started to link oral disease with the development of Dementia and Alzheimer’s. So, if you want to prevent other diseases from developing, then floss your teeth.
Stop Drinking Soda
Everyone loves a few fizzy drinks now and then. They can taste great and can provide a small dose of energy to get through your day. However, they’re also terrible for your teeth. The sugar content in many cans of soda or pop–whatever your preference–is extraordinary. As are the other elements and chemicals that exist within the drink. These contents can break down the enamel of your teeth and lead you right to tooth decay. When it comes to drinking fizzy drinks, sometimes it’s just best to find something else to drink.
Drink Water With Fluoride
Many cities have fluoride within their water. The amount has been tested to be one safe for ingesting. Fluoride is also a great way to protect your teeth. If your water doesn’t have fluoride in it, then you can typically buy bottled water or have water delivered to you that contains it.
Visit Your Local Dentist
Perhaps the best method for preventing tooth decay is visiting the dentist. They’ll provide you with a thorough cleaning that will obliterate plaque. For the best oral health possible, visit your local dentist regularly or as often as they recommend.
