Keeping your teeth healthy

Keeping your teeth healthy prevents problems that may happen later in life. By taking care of your teeth, you not only prevent problems but save money by not having to have expensive procedures if you had not taken care of your teeth properly. Following a few simple tips can prevent problems.

Healthy teeth for adults

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two to three minutes. However, the teeth should be brushed after every meal or snack. Use a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. 2. Floss on a daily basis to remove food particles and prevent decay. This can be done to remove particles wedged between the teeth that a toothbrush cannot remove. 3. Use a tongue scraper to clean to the tongue. This will promote fresh breath. If you do not have a tongue scraper, a toothbrush can be used. 4. Limit your consumption of carbonated beverages. The acid in the sodas erode the tooth enamel. Using a straw when drinking sodas will lessen the contact of soda on the teeth. 5. Drink milk to strengthen the teeth. 6. Do not chew gum that is high in sugar. 7. Check for changes in the mouth such as abscesses and gum irritation. 8. Visit the dentist regularly at least once a year, twice is better to make sure that everything is fine and if you need to make any changes to your teeth care regime. 9. Try to avoid smoking tobacco since it weakens teeth, causes discolouration, and may lead to oral cancer. 10. Eat nutritious foods and try to avoid sugars and foods like breads and cakes.

Healthy teeth for children

Infants 1. After they have been feed, gently wipe the infant's gums with a washcloth. This should also be done before they go to bed. 2. Once the infants begins to get teeth, they should be cleaned with a soft toothbrush and water only. Begin using toothpaste once they are able to spit it out. 3. Begin taking them to the dentist at the age of 12 months or after their first tooth as come in. Children 1. Children should brush their teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush. You should brush the child's teeth for them until they are able to do it properly on their own which is usually around the age of eight. 2. Make sure that they have a healthy diet and limit the intake of sugary foods and drinks. 3. Don't share drinks, foods, or silverware with children to avoid passing germs. 4. Floss their teeth at least once a day. 5. Children should see a dentist twice a year for a check-up and cleaning.