Brush your teeth twice a day. When you brush your teeth, brush for them for two minutes. You might want to try brushing once in the morning and once in the evening. Use just enough toothpaste to cover the length of the brush itself. Do not swallow toothpaste.
Brush all teeth in small circles, covering the entire tooth, from tip to gum line. Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle along your gum line. The brush should cover both your gum line and your teeth. Brush the outside faces of your teeth. Focus on groups of two or three teeth before moving onto the next. Move to the inner faces of your teeth, keeping your brush at a 45-degree angle. Keep your brushing motion focused on only two to three teeth at time, before moving onto the rest of them. Finish by brushing the inside faces of your front teeth by holding the tooth brush vertically, moving it up and down.
Brushing too hard can lead to sensitive teeth and receding gums. Consider using a brush with softer bristles if you notice your teeth or gums becoming sensitive from brushing. If the bristles of your brush are pushed outwards when brushing, you are brushing too hard.
The floss should reach between your hands, having been wrapped around your middle fingers.
Slide the floss between your teeth. Bend the floss into a “c” shape. Bring the floss completely up and down the tooth to clean out any plaque or tartar. Bend the “c” shape the other way and once again move the floss completely up and down the tooth. Continue in this way until you have flossed between every tooth.
Swish mouth wash for around thirty seconds before spitting it out. [9] X Research source You can dilute mouthwash with water if it is too strong. Brush properly, reaching all your teeth, and taking at least two minutes.
Regular visits with your dentist can help catch issues before they become big problems. Your dentist will be able to tell you how you can best maintain the health of you teeth. Visit your dentist at least once every two years if you have no problems. Visit immediately if you notice any new dental issues developing. [10] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Two types of braces exist today, fixed and removable. Removable braces can be taken out of the mouth, but the patient must keep careful records and diligently wear them to get the most out of them. Fixed braces cannot be taken off by the patient and don’t require the attention that removable braces do.
Foods that have a long period of contact with your teeth such as sugar, soda, cookies, and candies can damage teeth. Snacking often will make your mouth a more comfortable place for bacteria to live in. These bacteria can lead to tooth decay and other dental issues. Highly acidic foods and drinks, such as orange juice or tomatoes, can erode the enamel on you teeth. Tobacco, soda, tea, and red wine can all stain your teeth over time. [13] X Trustworthy Source American Dental Association World’s largest dental professional organization and advocate for proper oral health Go to source
Bleaching products will usually contain peroxide and focus on both inner and outer stain removal. Dentifrices work to remove only surface stains. Some report having sensitive teeth and gums after using whitening products. This is generally a temporary side effect.
