Don’t Go To Bed Without Brushing Your Teeth
It’s no secret that all dental professionals recommend brushing at least twice a day. Still, a lot of us continue to neglect to brush our teeth before going to bed. But, this is, in fact, vital as it gets rid of the germs and plaque that accumulate throughout the day.
Brush The Right Way
The way you brush is equally significant. In fact, doing a poor job of brushing your teeth is as bad as not brushing at all. Take your time, move the toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque. Plaque, if not removed regularly, can harden, leading to calculus build-up and gingivitis (early gum disease).
Don’t Neglect Your Tongue
Plaque can also build up on your tongue. This can lead to bad mouth odor and other oral health issues. To avoid this, gently brush and clean your tongue every time you brush your teeth.
Treat Flossing As Important As Brushing
Many people who brush regularly neglect to floss. Flossing is a good way to reduce plaque, stimulate your gums, and reduce inflammation. Flossing once a day is generally enough to reap these benefits.
Drink More Water
Water continues to be the best beverage for your overall health including your oral health. Schwartz recommends drinking water after every meal. This can help wash out some of the negative effects of sticky, sugary, and acidic foods and beverages.
Eat Crunchy Fruits And Vegetables
Ready-to-eat foods are convenient, but not good for your teeth. Fresh, crunchy produce not only contains more fiber, but it’s also the best choice for your teeth. “I often tell parents to get their kids to eat and chew hard-to-eat foods at a younger age,” says Schwartz. “So try to avoid the overly mushy processed stuff, stop cutting things into tiny pieces, and get those jaws working!”
Limit Sugary And Acidic Foods
Sugar converts into acid in the mouth. This acid can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids are what lead to cavities. Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee can also damage tooth enamel. While you don’t necessarily have to avoid such foods altogether, it would be good to be mindful.
