What to Do and What to Avoid When Caring for Your Teeth

 

We all know about cleaning our teeth at least twice a day, preferably with an electric toothbrush and a natural toothpaste, as well as regular flossing and dental checkups.  

• When brushing, set a timer for two minutes to avoid overbrushing and focus on being thorough but gentle.
• When flossing, use the type with a handle to make it easier to use and access molars.  Where there are big gaps between the teeth, choose interdental brushes which are the right size.  For example, they should slide in between the teeth with light resistance to remove the plaque and biofilm sitting on the surface.

But there is more you can do...

Keeping Hydrated

This is crucial for maintaining saliva production which in turn protects against tooth decay and gum disease.  Remember that a dry mouth increases the risk of cavities!  Drink plenty of water throughout the day - and even consider using a humidifier at night if you find you suffer from a dry mouth.

Snacking on raw crunchy veggies

Eating veggies such as carrots and celery as snacks or as part of your meals can help to clean both your teeth and your gums naturally as their fibrous texture scrubs away plaque and stimulates the gums.

Including fermented foods in your diet

Consuming probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt as well as fermented foods can promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your mouth, helping to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.

Using a tongue scraper

You might not know that tongue scraping can help to reduce both bad breath and bacteria that contribute to plaque buildup and cavities.  Ideally, use a tongue scraper or a toothbrush to gently clean your tongue daily.

Drinking with a straw

Acidic beverages such as fruit juice, sports drinks, energy drinks, smoothies and even sparkling water can erode tooth enamel over time.  If you are in the habit of drinking any of these on a regular basis, consider using a straw to minimize any contact with your teeth, remembering to rinse your mouth with water after drinking.

Getting into the habit of oil pulling

This is another great way to care for your teeth and you can find out all about it in our earlier post here. 

But there are also several suggestions that you should avoid

Brushing your teeth too soon

While you should brush your teeth twice a day, don't be in too much of a hurry.  Ideally, this should take place some thirty minutes after a meal.  Brushing teeth too soon after consuming anything acidic can damage tooth enamel because acids can temporarily weaken it. 

If for any reason, you cannot wait to brush your teeth, then rinse the mouth with water to help neutralize anything acidic.  if you are unable to brush your teeth when you should, then drinking some milk or eating a piece of cheese can be beneficial as those calcium-rich foods can help to strengthen enamel and neutralize acids.

Using mouthwash

Change to a natural mouthwash instead of a commercial one.  This can also be used during the day when brushing is difficult to reduce the bacteria in the mouth, help with fresh breath - and balance the flora and pH.

Avoiding sugar

Especially between meals as the frequency of consuming fizzy drinks, citrus fruits and candy can lead to enamel erosion and cavities.  Always try to limit your intake, remembering to rinse your mouth with water afterwards

Breathing through the mouth

When you breathe through mouth, the saliva dries out, preventing the natural remineralization of teeth.  It can also lead to clenching causing teeth damage or gum disease.  

Using your teeth as tools!

This is a definite no-no!  Don't be tempted to bite your nails, open packages or anything else using your teeth. These habits can cause cracks, chips and dental injuries.

 

SOURCES:

Gum disease. (n.d.).
ada.org/3063.aspx?currentTab=1. (Accessed 20 July, 2021).

Higdon J. (2014).
lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminK/. (Accessed 20 July, 2021).