1. Brush Your Teeth Twice a Day

Brushing your teeth is the foundation of good oral hygiene. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. Don’t forget to brush your tongue, as bacteria can accumulate there and cause bad breath.

Tip: Replace your toothbrush every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are frayed.

2. Floss Daily to Remove Hidden Bacteria

Flossing is just as important as brushing. It removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach. Daily flossing helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.

How to floss properly:

• Use about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your fingers.
• Gently slide the floss between each tooth, forming a C-shape to clean along the gum line.
• Avoid snapping the floss, as it can irritate your gums.

3. Eat a Tooth-Friendly Diet

Your diet has a significant impact on your oral health. Eating nutrient-rich foods helps strengthen your teeth and gums.

Best foods for healthy teeth:

• Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are high in calcium and strengthen tooth enamel.
• Crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally.
• Nuts and seeds provide essential minerals for strong teeth.

Foods and drinks to limit:

• Sugary snacks and beverages increase the risk of cavities.
• Acidic foods such as soda and citrus fruits can erode enamel over time.
• Sticky candies stay on teeth longer, leading to decay.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is the best drink for your teeth. It helps rinse away food particles, neutralizes acids, and keeps your mouth hydrated. Drinking fluoridated water also strengthens enamel and prevents tooth decay.

5. Avoid Smoking and Tobacco Products

Smoking and using tobacco increase the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Tobacco stains your teeth and weakens your gums, making them more prone to infection. Quitting tobacco is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health.

6. Visit the Dentist Regularly

Routine dental checkups are essential for preventing serious dental problems. During these visits, your dentist will:

• Examine your teeth and gums for early signs of issues.
• Perform a professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
• Provide personalized recommendations for maintaining oral health.

How often should you visit the dentist? Dentists recommend a checkup and cleaning every six months, but if you have specific dental concerns, you may need more frequent visits.

7. Protect Your Teeth While Playing Sports

If you play contact sports, wearing a custom mouthguard can prevent chipped, broken, or knocked-out teeth. Mouthguards cushion the impact and protect your teeth and gums from injury.

Keep Your Smile Healthy with Arrowood Dental

Good oral hygiene is a lifelong commitment, and following these simple steps can help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. At Arrowood Dental, we’re dedicated to providing expert dental care for you and your family.

Is it time for your next dental checkup? Don’t wait until you experience pain or discomfort. Schedule an appointment today and let us help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health.