As teeth weaken with age, they become more susceptible to cavities and gum disease. While there is no guaranteed way to avoid weak teeth altogether, there are several things you can do to help keep them strong for as long as possible. Some of the most important tips are to brush and floss regularly, eat a nutritious diet, and see your dentist for regular checkups. Other helpful measures include using fluoridated toothpaste and avoiding sugary drinks and snacks. By following these simple tips, you can help play a major role in taking care of your teeth.
Although dental care is not always cheap, it is an important investment in your overall health. Discussed below are detailed ways in which you can protect your teeth and keep them strong for years to come.
1. Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth.
By brushing for at least 2 minutes, you can reduce the risk of developing plaque or tartar buildup. You should also brush your tongue along the gum line as well.
2. Floss regularly.
Dental floss is especially important if you have braces since it can help remove food buildup that wouldn’t otherwise be removed by your toothbrush.
Floss at least once a day whenever you brush your teeth and use a special floss threader to make it easier to get to the places that are hard to reach.
This dentist in Ballantyne NC also adds that aside from dental floss, you can also use interdental brushes to clean the gaps between your teeth.
3. Get regular dental checkups.
At least once a year, your dentist will examine your teeth for signs of damage and wear. He/she will also examine your gums to see if they are healthy. Any damage that you don’t catch before it becomes too severe can lead to pain and loss of teeth.
4. Brush with fluoridated toothpaste.
Even though studies have not confirmed the effectiveness of fluoride as a dental treatment, it is still believed to help protect your teeth during the earliest stages when they are still forming. If you are concerned about your dental health, check the label on the back of your toothpaste and look for products that contain fluoride.
5. Limit sugary and acidic foods
These foods can damage your teeth and gums over time. If you cannot avoid them altogether, try limiting them as much as possible.
6. Use a mouthwash to fight bacteria.
Mouthwash can help remove the plaque that causes tooth decay and gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). It also neutralizes food particles that have stuck to your teeth during eating and can help keep them cleaner longer.
7. Drink more water
Drinking enough water is important for keeping the natural mineral salts that help maintain tooth enamel and oral health. Drinking enough water also helps you to get more sleep at night.
8. Avoid over-brushing
If you are interested in strengthening your teeth, you should make sure to avoid over brushing them. Over brushing can actually damage your gums and wear away tooth enamel.
Bottom line
All these tips will help to maintain good oral hygiene, which in turn will keep your teeth strong. With regular visits to the dentist and basic dental care, you can prevent tooth decay and gum disease from developing. That’s why it is important to visit a dentist occasionally for routine checkups.
