Teeth are made from strong, durable bone and can last a lifetime—but if you do want your teeth to last that long, it’s important to take good care of your oral health. Even though teeth are strong, both teeth and gums are vulnerable to problems such as plaque and tartar buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to prevent these problems occurring, including practicing good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly.
Follow a daily oral hygiene routine
Twice-daily brushing and daily flossing are the most important things you can do to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three months to ensure your brushing is optimally effective.
Another good practice to add to your daily routine is the use of antiseptic mouthwash. This helps combat the growth of bacteria in the oral environment and control plaque buildup.
Eat healthy
A diet that’s high in sugar and simple carbohydrates isn’t good for your body, and it’s not good for your oral health, either. Oral bacteria feed on sugars and carbohydrates, and deposit acids that break down tooth enamel and contribute to the development of tooth decay and cavities. Instead, reach for crispy crunchy high-fiber vegetables and fruit, which help to prevent plaque buildup on teeth.
Avoid bad habits
- Avoid smoking and using other tobacco products.
- Don’t chew ice. Ice is a very hard substance, and it’s not uncommon for teeth to sustain tiny stress fractures from ice chewing. Over time these tiny fractures can increase in size and ultimately lead to breakage.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools! Avoid using your teeth to tear or break anything but food. And when eating tough or chewy foods, use a knife to cut the food into smaller pieces.
See your dentist regularly
At-home dental care is your first line of defense against tooth decay and gum disease, but the dental care your dentist provides is important too. Your dentist can offer regular professional tooth cleaning, gum care, and tartar control, that’s an essential part of keeping your teeth and gums in good shape.
Enjoy a Lifetime of Healthy Teeth and Gums
It does take a little work to maintain a great oral hygiene routine—including daily brushing and flossing, paying attention to your diet, and avoiding those unhealthy habits—but the results are definitely worth it. With regular at-home and professional oral care, your teeth and gums will stay healthy for a lifetime.