Taking care of
your teeth is no easy task! There are so many things that can go wrong with
those pearly whites, it's hard to keep track. However, with some simple
vigilance and attention on your part, your teeth can last you a lifetime
without problems. The following article is equipped with tried and true dental
care just for you!
Don't use a
hard toothbrush when brushing your teeth. Soft and medium brushes are gentle on
the teeth, ensuring your enamel stays securely in place. Hard bristles can
cause problems that lead to cavities, decay and breakage. It's best to ask your
dentist which brush brand he recommends when you visit.
Strengthen your
existing enamel with the foods that you eat. Certain vitamins and the mineral
calcium, in particular, all help out with this. Foods that are good to
accomplish this with include nuts, meats and dairy choices. Avoid sugary foods,
soft drinks and sweetened teas, as these will do immediate damage to your
enamel.
Avoid snacking
on carbs if possible. Potato chips and other salty snacks will not be easy to
remove from your teeth. If you need to have a snack, choose some fruits or
another healthy food. Clean your teeth immediately afterward if you can, or
plan on spending more time flossing later.
Don't settle
for using just any toothpaste. This is when it's time to buy expensive. Buy a
product that has baking soda or a whitening formula and one that fights against
tartar and plaque. If need be, get a recommendation from your dentist, and this
will make your mouth feel instantly better.
If you know you
won't be able to brush your teeth after a meal, try and eat foods that can act
as temporary substitutes. Things like apples and celery are good for you and
will act as gentle abrasion tools as you chew, cleaning the surfaces and even
reaching between teeth to remove particles of food.
If your child
is prone to cavities, discuss a sealant with your dentist. A sealant is
essentially a clear coat that is brushed onto each tooth. It is permanent, and
it can help children who have weak enamel and are prone to cavities. The
sealant can be applied right in the dentist's office, and there is usually no
need for sedation.
Dentist
Be vigilant
about taking care of your teeth. If you notice anything that concerns you, make
sure you call your dentist to see if you need to come in for an extra
appointment. Some signs to watch out for are bleeding gums, sensitivity to cold
or hot or excessively bad breath throughout the day.
If your gums
are consistently bleeding in swollen, it is important that you visit your
dentist. While it could be something as simple as sensitive gums, it could be
something as serious as heart disease. Your dentist can give you an examination
and try to investigate the cause of your swollen, bleeding gums.
Don't ever take
pain in your teeth lightly! Severe or prolonged pain may be an indication that
an infection is present and this needs to be addressed immediately. Call your
dentist right away to report the problem and follow-up with a visit promptly;
infections of the teeth can actually spread to your brain if left untreated.
Dental
Treatment
Visit the
dentist on a regular basis. Getting your teeth checked out regularly can make
you sure that they're healthy. A dentist can also detect problems that you
can't. When he does find something that needs attention, he can begin treating
it right away. Even the most seemingly minor dental concern can have serious
consequences further down the road.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening
products can work, but sometimes they cause more trouble than they're worth.
They can weaken enamel and leave your teeth in a condition where they can
easily break or develop cavities. It's best to talk to your dentist about teeth
whitening choices which they recommend for your needs.
Avoid beverages
and food that stain your teeth. Your efforts will be self-defeating. If you
want to have the best smile possible, it is important to make a few sacrifices.
Talk with your
dentist before you try a commercially available product for teeth whitening.
Some products actually hurt your teeth. There are products that are safe however, telling them from the harmful products can be difficult. A dentist or
dental hygienist can offer more insight into which product will best meet your
needs.
