Important Tips for Healthy Teeth

How often should I brush my teeth?

Brushing your teeth twice daily is recommended by dentists. The American Dental Association recommends brushing at least two times per day, preferably after every meal. This helps remove food particles from between your teeth and around them, preventing bacteria from building up.

Brush your teeth thoroughly until they sparkle. While you start in teeth cleaning, use a soft bristled toothbrush and brush gently back and forth along the gum line. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously or using a hard bristle brush. If you notice stains on your teeth, rinse with water immediately after brushing to wash away any residue left behind.

How do I floss properly?

Flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Flossing removes plaque that has built-up in between your teeth. It also helps prevent periodontal disease. To ensure proper flossing technique, follow these steps:

Hold one end of the string between your teeth and gums, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) hanging loose. Do not pull it tight.

Insert the other end into the space between your teeth and gum. Gently move the floss through your teeth, following the curve of each tooth.

Pull the floss out slowly. Be careful not to tug on it; just let it slide out.

Do not use more than one strand of floss at a time.

When flossing, make sure to clean all areas of your mouth. Don’t be afraid to go deep!

What are some ways to help keep my teeth white?

There are many things you can do to maintain a bright smile. Here are some tips:

Use a whitening gel. Whitening gels contain hydrogen peroxide which works to lighten discolored teeth. You can buy over-the-counter products like Listerine Whitening Gel, Crest 3D White Professional, and Colgate Total Care Bright Smile. Some professional whiteners include whitening strips or trays.

Use a fluoride rinse. Fluoride rinses strengthen enamel and help protect against decay. They may cause staining if used frequently. Look for fluoride rinses labeled as “toothpaste” or “mouthwash.”

Visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist will check your teeth for problems and recommend treatments that will keep your teeth strong and healthy.

The best way to get rid of bad breath is to stop putting it there in the first place.

Bad breath isn’t always caused by poor dental health. Many people have bad breath because their body produces extra amounts of sulfur compounds when they eat certain foods. These compounds then travel through the digestive system and come out of the mouth as foul odors.

Bad breath may be due to a number of different causes including:

• Eating spicy foods or garlic cloves.

• Drinking alcohol.

• Having a cold sore.

• Using tobacco.

• Being overweight.

• Not getting enough sleep.

• Stress.

If you suspect your bad breath might be caused by something else, see your doctor. He or she can determine whether you need medication or treatment for your condition.

Tips for keeping your teeth healthy

Toothbrushes – Brush your teeth twice a day, morning and night, with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Make sure to brush both sides of your teeth, going back and forth until your gums are pink. Rinse well afterwards.

Toothpastes – Use a paste made from baking soda instead of toothpaste containing abrasives. This type of paste is better for sensitive teeth.

Fluoride – If you live in an area where tap water contains high levels of fluoride, drink up to eight glasses of fluoridated water daily.

Sealants – Sealant is a thin coating applied to the chewing surfaces of molars. The sealant prevents cavities and reduces sensitivity.

Brushing and flossing should be done every day. However, it’s recommended that you brush your teeth before bedtime to reduce the risk of developing tartar buildup overnight. Tartar buildup is a hard substance that forms on teeth and makes them look yellowish and rough.

Finally, remember that brushing and flossing alone won’t prevent cavities completely. It’s important to visit your dentist at least once a year for regular cleaning and checkups, or you can check our sites and communicate with our best orthodontist in Dubai.

Author bio:

Dr. Nabil Mockbil is an Orthodontist who received his DDS in 2001 from Umea University in Sweden, regarded as having the best dentist programme in Sweden for undergraduates. He’s now the founder of Swedish Dental Clinic – Dubai Marina.