Since we won’t be the first to talk about tips for tooth care at home, we’ll at least try to be the best.
At HQ Dontics, we strive for excellence in all aspects of our dental center, and that includes the advice we give to our patients and the general public.
So here are the 15 most important tips we dentists can offer on how to take care of your oral health at home.
Best tips for tooth care at Home
1. Brush twice a day.
This seems obvious, but with the pace of life that many people lead, you never know. Brushing your teeth twice a day, once when you wake up and once before going to bed, will help you avoid bacteria and all the problems that come with it.
And why do we emphasize ‘twice a day’? Because it is the minimum recommended, and the maximum is three. If you do it too much, you may weaken the dentin, which is the protective layer of the teeth, and the enamel.
2. Brush for two minutes
Two to three minutes is the ideal time for tooth brushing.
In fact, the American Dental Association recommends that the tooth brushing process should always last a strict minimum of two minutes. This is because this is the time it takes for all food debris to be removed from the mouth.
3. Brush well
If you brush your teeth by placing the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums and move it gently in small circles, you will be doing it right.
You should brush the external and internal surfaces and the tops of the teeth.
When brushing the front teeth, tilt the brush and makeup and down movements.
4. Use the right toothbrush
Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging your tooth enamel and gums.
Replace it every three months to keep it performing its function. It is also recommended to change it after going through a virus, such as the common cold.
5. Don’t forget your tongue
Approximately 80% of the bacteria in the mouth are not on the teeth. That is why it is very important that you wash your tongue well every time you brush.
To maintain the health of your teeth, brushing your tongue is key.
6. Use dental floss
The toothbrush does not reach the cavities between the teeth. So flossing is just as important.
You should pass it between all teeth to prevent food accumulation from turning into cavities.
7. Do not brush immediately after eating
If you have consumed sugars or acidic drinks, your teeth will be vulnerable for the next 20 minutes.
The ideal is to wait half an hour for the enamel to strengthen again, and then brush your teeth.
In any case, it is best to brush before breakfast and then just rinse your mouth.
8. Do not consume too many acids
If you consume too many acidic foods and drinks, they can cause your tooth enamel to dissolve.
This can lead to excessive sensitivity and even cavities between your teeth.
9. The same thing happens with sugar
Excessive sugar consumption generates cavities. But we must go further: white bread and pasta also turn into sugar when they come into contact with saliva.
Consequently, the comprehensive solution is to consume less and less sugar. This will also be positive for all aspects of your health.
10. Consume vitamins for your teeth
And what are the vitamins for healthy teeth? The most important is Vitamin D. However, vitamins A, B and C should also be consumed.
If you include a good dose of fluoride and calcium, you will be contributing to the good health of your teeth.
In any case, do not seek to consume them synthetically unless prescribed by a physician. Only eat foods that have these properties.
11. Use your teeth only for eating
As harmless as your nails may seem to your powerful teeth, don’t bite them because they might surprise you.
Also, do not use your teeth to uncork soft drinks, beers or open packages.
Use them only for chewing food and you will see how much longer they last…
12. Rinse your mouth
Although rinsing your mouth is not a substitute for brushing, it can help you maintain the health of your mouth.
Also called mouthwashes, they are ideal to avoid infections, especially immediately after eating.
13. Stay hydrated
If you drink at least two liters of water a day, especially during the summer, you will generate the right amount of saliva to keep your mouth hydrated.
This will reduce bacteria associated with tooth decay and gum disease.
14. Set an example at home
If you are a parent, and you follow the tips mentioned earlier in this article, your children will develop habits that are essential for good oral health.
15. Visit the dentist regularly
Dental cleanings are a deep cleaning that you will need every so often, according to your dentist’s instructions.
With these home tooth care tips, we hope to help you and your family understand the value of oral health. We also hope to make good practices visible so that more and more people will adopt them.
If you need to visit the dentist, come to HQ Dontics. We are experts in creating spectacular smiles.
