Everyone knows how easy it is to take care of your teeth at home. It only takes a few basic tools and a few minutes per day. If you want to protect yourself from the pain of losing your teeth in the future, you can do so with a little daily discipline.
Everyone wants to look as young and healthy for as long as possible, and that is what fuels the multi-billion dollar anti-aging industry. A pretty face and a beautiful smile project a youthful appearance. Skin rejuvenation and plastic surgery is very expensive; however, taking care of your teeth is inexpensive and easy to do yourself.
Most Americans think of a toothbrush as their main weapon in the war against tooth decay because that is what they have been taught since elementary school. It doesn’t matter whether it is a manual toothbrush, a battery operated toothbrush, or an electric toothbrush; what matters is that you use it. However, many people forget the downside of using a toothbrush – the bristles are a breeding ground for bacteria.
To avoid bacteria growing on your toothbrush, follow some simple rules. Never share your toothbrush – whether it is with your spouse or a one-time visitor. Always utilize a UV sanitizer after each brushing. If you don’t have a sanitizing unit, clean the brush thoroughly by holding it under running water for at least twenty seconds. Then allow the bristles to air dry – don’t throw the wet toothbrush in a dark drawer or stick it in a fancy case. Also, don’t store it near an open toilet. Buy a new brush every two months, and after every bout of sickness or if you drop it on the bathroom floor.
An alternative to using a toothbrush is now being recommended by many dentists. Oral irrigators, also known as water flossers, shoot out a concentrated stream of water to remove food debris and bacteria from between the teeth that brushing and flossing don’t reach. Dental hygienists recommend oral irrigation to stimulate gum tissue as well as remove plaque.
Most everyone uses a toothpaste or mouth rinse in conjunction with his or her toothbrush or water flosser. Toothpastes and rinses now give you many choices besides just aiding the cleaning of your tooth. They can help whiten your teeth, freshen your breath, prevent gingivitis (gum disease), control your tartar, and promote stronger tooth enamel. One ingredient you should make sure they contain is Fluoride, a supplement to strength your teeth. Another ingredient to look for is Triclosan. It kills bacteria.
If you don’t use a water flosser, than you should use dental floss to assist in keeping your teeth clean and your gums healthy. Again, there is a variety of choices on the market from which you can choose – the differences mainly being how easy they are to use. You can buy waxed or non-waxed, thick or thin, roped, and flavored. You can even buy a plastic holder to make flossing easier, or pre-strung plastic holders that you simply throw away after using.
Some people use a plastic or wooden toothpick to clean food from between their teeth. Dentists do not recommend this because you can easily damage the gum between your teeth.
While don’t have to spend a lot of money for the basic tools you will need for taking care of your teeth, you should still visit your dentist at least twice a year for a general checkup. An x-ray can spot a cavity before it develops into a major problem, and a thorough teeth cleaning at the dentist is great for helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Tooth Decay And Periodontal Disease Are Directly Related To Your Diet
Most people don't realize it but the foods they eat on a daily basis play a dramatic role in their oral health. If you are serious about maintaining healthy teeth and gum, it's imperative you start paying attention to the types of foods you eat.
Many Children Suffer From A Condition Called Bruxism
Did you know that an estimated 30% of children grind their teeth while they sleep at night? The condition is called Bruxism and believe it or not, it's usually harmless.
Several Good Reasons Why You Should Improve Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry
Everyone is self-conscious about their teeth at one time or another. There are things your dentist can do to improve your smile.
