1. Brush two times a day.
Brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time. Ideally, you should brush when you wake up each morning and before you go to bed each night.
2. Floss once daily.
Flossing removes debris from between your teeth that your toothbrush can't reach. Flossing your teeth every night minimizes the risk of tooth decay between your teeth, and keeps your gums healthy.
3. Attend regular appointments with your dentist.
You should get into the habit of visiting your dentist twice a year (every six months) for routine hygiene cleanings and oral exams. These appointments provide your dentist with the chance to deep clean your teeth as well as diagnose and treat any issues that may be developing.
4. Eat a healthy diet.
Eating healthy is good for your whole body, including your teeth. A diet that's high in calcium and low in sugar will help keep your teeth healthy and strong. Leafy greens, carrots, apples, almonds, yogurt, and cheese are all foods that are good for your oral health.
5. Limit sugary drinks.
Drinking sugary beverages, such as pop, on a regular basis can put you at a higher risk for cavities. Instead, drink primarily water or milk, and try leaving sugary drinks for occasional treats.
6. Stay hydrated.
Drinking lots of water can help prevent cavities. By staying hydrated, you will maintain a flow of saliva that washes away food particles that buildup on your teeth. These particles let bacteria grow.
7. Rinse with mouthwash.
A good addition to your daily brushing and flossing routine is rinsing with mouthwash. It can help to kill bacteria in your mouth that can cause issues like cavities and gum disease.
8. Replace your toothbrush regularly.
We recommend changing your toothbrush at least once every six months. You might want to replace it sooner if the bristles have become stiff, or if you have recently fought off a cough or flu.
9. Don’t smoke.
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your oral health. Not only does it stain your teeth, it also increases the risk of oral cancer and gum disease.
10. Monitor your mouth at home.
Try to examine the inside of your mouth regularly. If you spot anything that appears to be out of the ordinary such as lumps, bumps, or unhealed sores, make an appointment to get it checked by your dentist.