Taking care of your teeth involves using the right oral care products, brushing your teeth at least twice a day (including before bed), brushing properly (using gentle, circular motions to remove plaque), brushing your tongue, using fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, using mouthwash (which can help reduce acid in the mouth, clean hard-to-brush areas, and re-mineralise teeth), drinking water, eating crunchy fruits and vegetables, and limiting sugary and acidic foods. It’s also important to visit the dentist regularly and be aware of any changes in your mouth. Proper oral hygiene can help prevent problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Why you should take care your teeth
Taking care of your teeth is important for so many reasons:
To prevent tooth decay and gum disease
Brushing and flossing regularly helps to remove plaque, a film of bacteria that can build up on the teeth and cause tooth decay and gum disease.
To maintain good oral health
Good oral hygiene can help to prevent a variety of oral health problems, such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
To preserve your natural teeth
Taking care of your teeth can help to keep them healthy and strong, which can help to prevent the need for costly and invasive dental procedures, such as fillings or extractions.
To improve your appearance
A healthy, white smile can boost your self-confidence and make a positive impression on others.
To save money
Investing in good oral hygiene now can help to prevent costly dental problems in the future.
In summary, taking care of your teeth is important for maintaining good oral health, preserving your natural teeth, improving your appearance, and saving money in the long run.
How to keep your teeth and gums healthy
Here are some best practices for keeping your teeth and gums healthy:
Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle circular motions to clean the fronts, backs, and tops of your teeth. Be sure to brush for at least two minutes each time.
Floss daily
Use dental floss or an interdental cleaner to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line.
Use mouthwash
Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks
These can increase your risk of tooth decay and erosion.
Does “No Added Sugar” mean “Sugar Free”?
In the UK, “No Added Sugar” means that no sugar has been added to the product during the manufacturing process. It does not necessarily mean that the product is completely free of sugar. For example, a product that contains fruit or milk may still contain natural sugars from these sources.
On the other hand, “Sugar Free” means that the product contains no sugar or very low levels of sugar. This includes both added sugars and natural sugars.
It is important to carefully read the ingredient list and nutrition label of a product to determine the type and amount of sugar it contains. You can also look for the “Carbohydrates (of which sugars)” line on the nutrition label, which gives the total amount of carbohydrates in the product, including both natural and added sugars.
It is worth noting that the terms “No Added Sugar” and “Sugar Free” have different meanings in different countries, so it is always a good idea to check the labeling and regulations in the country where you are purchasing the product.
Drink plenty of water
Water can help to rinse away food particles and neutralise acid in the mouth.
Eat a healthy diet
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products can support healthy teeth and gums.
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
A worn-out toothbrush may not be as effective at removing plaque.
Visit your dentist regularly
Your dentist can clean your teeth and identify any potential problems early on.
By following these practices, you can help to keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent oral health problems. It is important to note that these practices are meant to supplement, not replace, professional dental care.