8 Tips to Help Keep Your Teeth Clean

Many patients wish they could extend the feeling of cleanliness and freshness after receiving a professional teeth cleaning in Oshawa. If you’re one of them, don’t worry. We’re bringing you a few important tips that will take your at-home oral routine to the next level. This will not only make your teeth feel cleaner for longer but it will also keep your mouth in check until your next visit to the dentist.

1. Proper technique while brushing

This one is the most important thing you have to know. If you don’t have a proper technique, there is really no point in trying tips and tricks. Good dental hygiene is necessary to maintain healthy teeth. You have to make sure to brush at least twice a day. Also, remember to brush for the right amount of time, and to hold the toothbrush at the right angle. It's okay if you're unsure of your technique. You can always ask your local dentist in Oshawa for guidance in the proper brushing technique. Dentists are trained to educate patients and focus on prevention.

2. Flossing daily

Some people think only brushing is enough, but they’re wrong. Flossing is a necessary practice that everyone should implement in their routine. Basically, it helps you reach difficult parts between your teeth that are not accessible with a toothbrush in order to remove plaque.

3. Say goodbye to sugar

Do yourself a favour by significantly cutting your sugar intake. Any dentist near you will tell you that sugar alters the acidity in your mouth, promotes bacterial growth, and contributes to plaque formation. An excess intake of sugar is heavily related to tooth decay. But if giving up your favourite dessert or candy proves to be an impossible feat, then at least be diligent with brushing and flossing after indulging.

4. Don’t drink pop

The ingredients present in pop such as citric acid and phosphoric acid damage your enamel. This will not only result in stains on your teeth but will also make them a lot more prone to tooth decay. So, swap soft drinks for water. It will make a big difference in the way your teeth look and feel.

5. Stay away from cigarettes

If you want a beautiful smile you need to quit smoking. The unhealthy habit not only stains your teeth, but also damages your gums, and leaves you with terrible breath. The chemicals in cigarettes like tar and nicotine promote the growth of bacteria, leading to more plaque formation.

6. Don’t be too aggressive

Some people overdo it while brushing their teeth. The aggressive brushing only causes them to damage their enamel, increase tooth sensitivity, and even cause gum recession. The latter is irreversible, therefore it’s best to use a soft-bristle brush while brushing your teeth with gentle but effective motions.

7. Chew sugar-free gum

Having a piece of gum can help you clean your teeth in situations where you’re eating out and can’t brush your teeth right away. Chewing gum promotes salivation and this regulates the pH of your mouth. Just remember it should be sugar-free gum if you want to reap these benefits.

8. Eat high-fiber foods

If you don’t like chewing gum, then you can end your meal with fibrous fruits and vegetables. The fiber in foods such as apples and celery can clean the surface of your teeth and prevent plaque formation.

The takeaway

These tips should keep your teeth feeling fresh until you schedule your next teeth cleaning near you. Remember that you still need to visit your dentist on a regular basis if you want your smile to look bright and healthy.