How to Take Care of Your Teeth

BY  Dr Susan Jewell MD

Regular visits to the dentist are vitally important if you are to keep your teeth in perfect condition and to prevent future teeth and gum problems and periodontal disease. Dental hygiene and regular brushing and flossing should be part of your daily personal hygiene regimen. This article will offer some advice for keeping your pearly whites healthy and strong.

1. Dental visits are vitally important if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy and strong. It is recommended to visit your dentist every three to four months for checkups and follow-ups.

2. See a dental hygienist (who is often part of the dental team) for regular teeth cleanings to prevent gingivitis and gum disease. Regular teeth cleaning will prevent the buildup of plaque and reduce the risks of tooth decay.

3. Brush correctly every time you pick up your toothbrush. Spend at least 3 to 6 minutes brushing your teeth on the inner and outer surfaces. Use vertical motions or up and down strokes on the tooth surface.

4. Dispose of your toothbrush every month and replace it with a new one; old bristles can harbor many harmful bacteria. Choose a medium bristle toothbrush to avoid damaging your gum line. After each brushing, rinse out the toothbrush and make sure you keep the bristles as dry as possible to reduce the risk of bacteria multiplying on the moist bristles.

5. FLOSS FLOSS FLOSS. This cannot be emphasized enough. You must remember to floss your teeth after each tooth brushing. Floss will reach the areas between the teeth that a toothbrush is incapable of getting to. It is important to remove all minute food particles from your teeth to reduce tooth decay. Wax floss is easier to use and better for dislodging leftover food.

6. Brush your teeth at least THREE times a day, after each meal if you can. Remember, you have only one set of adult teeth to last you your lifetime. So take care of them before it’s too late.