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Who doesn't want strong, white teeth? While genetics and certain lifestyle factors can play a role in the strength and appearance of our teeth, there are steps we can take to help keep our teeth healthy and looking their best. Here are 10 tips to help you achieve stronger and whiter teeth.
1. Brush your teeth twice a day.
Brushing your teeth twice a day is an essential part of maintaining healthy teeth. By removing plaque and bacteria from the surface of your teeth, brushing helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes each time, using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
2. Floss daily.
Flossing is another important part of maintaining healthy teeth. It removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gumline. Floss at least once a day, using a gentle back and forth motion and taking care to floss between all of their teeth. You can also use devices such as water flossers to make things easy.
3. Use mouthwash.
Mouthwash can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath, which can be beneficial for your teeth. The rinsing action helps reach surfaces which cannot be cleaned by routine brushing or flossing. Make it a part of your oral healthcare regimen. Non-Alcoholic mouthwashes in various flowers like peppermint, citrus, bubblegum,green tea etc are available.
4. Avoid tobacco.
Tobacco use can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, as well as stain the surface of your teeth. It is best to avoid tobacco products, including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and e-cigarettes, to help protect their teeth and overall oral health.
5. Eat a healthy diet.
A healthy diet can help support healthy teeth and gums. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, and limit their consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks.
6. Drink plenty of water.
Drinking water can help flush away food particles and bacteria from your mouth, which can be beneficial for your teeth. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially after meals. Please note that flavoured water like lemon water, sodas, colas, sports drinks, soft and hard drinks, sherbets, fruit juices, ice teas and coffees or even black or green teas are no substitute for plain, simple water.
7. Avoid grinding your teeth or trusting your tongue.
Unconsciously, as a result of venting out our stresses, we can indulge in teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, or tongue thrusting. Both can damage your teeth and gums. Be aware of any such habits and speak to your dentist if you suspect that you are having any such habits. Specialised appliances, counselling and cognitive behaviour therapy may help and can all be suggested and worked upon by your dentist.
8. Don't forget to brush your tongue.
Brushing your tongue can help remove bacteria and freshen your breath, which can be beneficial for your teeth. Use a tongue scraper, the textured back side of a toothbrush or a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your tongue as part of your oral hygiene routine.
9. Get regular dental check-ups.
Regular visits to the dentist are an important part of maintaining healthy teeth. During these visits, your dentist will check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease, and provide treatment as needed. The ideal timing of visiting the dentist is every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up.
10. Use teeth whitening products.
If you are interested in whitening their teeth, there are a variety of over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, including whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels. Speak to your dentist about your options before attempting any DIY procedures.
The American Dental Association recommends the 2-2-2 rule as a simple way to keep your teeth healthy!
- Visit the dentist twice per year.
- Brush and floss at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Spend two whole minutes in brushing and flossing.
By following these 10 tips, your patients can help achieve stronger and whiter teeth. Encourage them to take an active role in their own oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to get the most out of their dental care.
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