1. Brush twice a day.
Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice each day for two minutes each time. Ideally, brush when you wake up each morning and before you go to bed each night.
2. Floss once a day.
Flossing removes debris from between your teeth that your toothbrush isn't able to reach. Flossing your teeth each night will minimize your risk of developing tooth decay between your teeth and will help to keep your gums healthy.
3. Visit the dentist regularly.
You should plan to visit your dentist for a hygiene cleaning and oral exams at least twice a year, every six months. These appointments give your teeth a professional deep cleaning and allow your dentist to identify and treat any issues that may be developing.
4. Eat a healthy diet.
Eating a healthy diet is good practice for caring for your entire body - and that includes your teeth. A diet that is high in calcium and low in sugar will help to keep your teeth healthy and strong. Foods that are beneficial to your oral health can include leafy greens, carrots, apples, yogurt and cheese.
5. Avoid sugary drinks.
Drinking sugary beverages, like pop, on a regular basis can increase your risk of cavities. Instead, drink primarily water or milk, and try leaving sugary drinks for occasional treats.
6. Stay hydrated.
Drinking lots of water can also help to prevent cavities. By keeping hydrated, you will help to maintain the flow of saliva through your mouth, washing away food particles that would otherwise allow bacteria to grow and create plaque in your mouth.
7. Add mouthwash to your routine.
Rinsing with mouthwash is a good addition to your daily brushing and flossing routine. It can help to kill bacteria in your mouth that can cause issues like cavities and gum disease.
8. Replace your toothbrush regularly.
You should change out your toothbrush at least once every 6 months or so. If the bristles have become stiff or you have become ill recently with a cold or flu, you should consider replacing it sooner.
9. Don’t smoke.
One of the best things you can do for your oral health is to quit smoking. Not only does it stain your teeth, it also increases the risk of oral cancer and gum disease.
10. Examine your mouth at home.
Try examining the inside of your mouth routinely. If you notice anything that looks out of the ordinary like bumps, lumps or unhealed sores, make an appointment and get it checked out by your dentist.