Caring for your teeth should come as second nature, yet some people find it tedious, unnecessary and just plain boring. Well, it’s time to get out of that rut and into the teeth-protecting game. After all, the more you look after them, the less you’ll have to pay for getting work done (and the more your dentist will love you).
In just a few simple ways, you can be back on track to the dazzling smile you deserve. Here are some helpful tips to point out how:
Brush at least twice a day for two minutes
“I know, I know”, you may be saying. But how many times have you brushed your teeth, only to have a drink or snack later and not brush them again after? The easiest way to remember is by brushing straight after breakfast and straight after dinner (unless you’ve had something acidic, then wait at least an hour). The recommended amount of time to brush is two minutes. If you find it boring, focus on each tooth you brush while making your way around. With something to focus on, not only will you get a good brush but it will also make time go faster.
Chew food, not pens!
While you may think it’s easier to use your teeth to cut a piece of sticky tape or open a plastic bottle, it should be a big no-no. This one’s as simple as it can be: Your teeth are not a tool, and using them to open packaging could result in a broken tooth and yet another trip to the dentist.
Limit sugary and acidic food
This may sound more like a dieting tip to you, but your teeth are the first part of your body that is impacted by what you eat. The key is to keep your mouth neutral, which means eating sugary and acidic foods less frequently in your day. Plus, once you become accustomed to the change of the frequency of consumption, it will become second nature and you will crave these sugary foods less and less.
Wear a mouthguard for sport
Love your sports but you’re a little accident prone? Regardless of your amount of clumsiness, getting a custom-made mouth guard is key to protecting your teeth while playing sports, especially those that are high contact. Getting a custom made mouthguard is much more beneficial, as standard ones can loosen or dislodge and aren’t very effective.
Check out your technique
Think back to the last time you really analysed how you brush your teeth. By using the correct tools such as a soft to medium tooth brush of small to medium size, fluoridated toothpaste, floss and remembering to change your toothbrush will get you a much better result. The next step is to have a look at how you’re brushing them. If you need a helpful hand, you can purchase liquids from the pharmacy that, when put in your mouth, will reveal any plaque you have missed. Observe the technique you use to brush this off and adopt it in your everyday routine.
See your dentist for regular check-ups.
Even if it’s just to show off how well you’ve been looking after your pearly whites, don’t forget to visit your dentist regularly. It’s always good to be aware of what’s happening in your body, and your teeth are no exception.
