Teeth help you with everything. Not only do they allow you to talk and chew, but they can also seriously impact your appearance. Taking care of them by brushing regularly and flossing is essential, but you should take extra caution by being proactive in your dental routine. Keep reading to find out how to keep your pearly whites clean.
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1. Throw Away Your Toothbrush
One of the universal tips to keep your teeth clean is to replace your toothbrush regularly. Make sure to open an entirely new toothbrush every two to three months, since old toothbrushes are known just to track bacteria into your mouth. If you have an electric toothbrush, you should also be replacing the head four to six times a year. Fewer bacteria will enter your mouth, and you will be left with a whiter, brighter smile.
2. Brush Correctly
Since brushing your teeth is such a common task, some people may think that it’s a no-brainer and that no matter what, they can’t do it wrong. However, this is untrue. So try this next time you brush: Grip the toothbrush like a pencil, so you won’t want to scrub your mouth so hard. Scrubbing too hard can lead to a stressed and receding gum line. Then, you must hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle, and use tiny circular motions to brush your teeth. But, if you own a sonic toothbrush, there is no need to make the circular motions.
Brushing incorrectly is one of the most common mistakes that people may not know is seriously negatively affecting their oral health. Getting the right angle and pressure in your mouth is absolutely necessary. So for your best smile, make sure to brush with the correct technique!
3. Always Use Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Many over-the-counter types of mouthwash are packed with alcohol, which can dry out the mouth and makes it more susceptible to bacteria and other negative effects. The mouth does need saliva to protect it against these infections. Without it, bad breath and cavities can come into play. So next time you are shopping for mouthwash, always opt for the alcohol-free options.
Mouthwash with alcohol included also can cause a burning sensation in the mouth for a lot of people. If you have sensitive teeth or gums and are susceptible to oral irritation, then it’s smart never to use mouthwash with alcohol.
4. Brush Your Tongue
To freshen your breath and remove nasty tongue plaque and build-up, always use a tongue scraper. This plaque on the tongue is known to cause bad breath, and using a tongue scraper daily will make that problem disappear. It is also important to note that tongue scrapers are more effective than toothbrushes in getting gunk off of your tongue, so it’s smart to invest in one.
When it comes to your oral health, your tongue has a lot to do with it. Brush it regularly to avoid cavities or bad breath.
5. Be Proactive About Your Teeth and Gums
Replacing your toothbrush is one of the most vital things you can do for your dental health. You should also always make sure you’re brushing with the right technique, never pushing too hard on your gums. Mouthwash with alcohol in it can be destructive to your mouth, so you should also purchase alcohol-free options. Even taking the time to floss after meals can make a huge positive impact on your health. Make sure to round out your routine by brushing your tongue as well, and you’re on the way to a brighter smile.
