How to take care of your teeth?

After all, you want a beautiful smile

We all want to have perfectly looking white teeth (Related: Teeth whitening options) and a beautiful smile but there is more to it than a trip to the dentist (Related: How to pick a cosmetic dentist). Here are some excellent tips for oral and dental hygiene:

Toothbrushes: In choosing a manual toothbrush, soft and extra soft bristles are gentler with a compact size head. Soft and extra soft bristles are less abrasive on both the enamel and gums while the compact head makes the back teeth more accessible. The handle should also be comfortable to grip and hold. People with impaired motor skills or arthritis may find powered toothbrushes helpful. Toothbrushes and brush heads should be replaced every three to four months for hygienic purposes and to ensure proper cleaning. Bristles that are frayed can not clean teeth effectively and can irritate gums.

Photo of how to brush your teeth the right way. Toothpaste: Today there is a wide assortment of toothpaste available. From all natural to fluoride free, toothpastes come in flavors ranging from the traditional mint to bubble gum and mango. There are also many specialty toothpaste (e.g. Starbrite) that are made to whiten teeth, treat sensitivity, or improve gum health. A remineralizing toothpaste helps to rebuild the tooth’s enamel for stronger, healthier teeth while fighting plaque and tooth sensitivity. (Related: How to whiten your teeth)

Dental Floss: Because a toothbrush can not reach into all the places that plaque and food debris collect, dental floss is essential in maintaining a healthy mouth. Dental floss is used to reach between the teeth and gumline where the toothbrush misses. Like toothpaste, dental floss is now available in many different brands but essentially there are two different types: waxed and unwaxed. Although both are effective, waxed dental floss is often easier for people to slip between teeth that are tightly spaced. Floss aids and holders are also available to help make flossing easier.

Interdental Cleaners: An alternative method of cleaning between teeth is with an interdental cleaner. Interdental cleaners are made in a variety of sizes to accommodate people with different size spaces between their teeth. These products range from picks to sticks and can be easier to handle than floss. Check with a dentist for proper use of these instruments to avoid injuring gums.

Oral Irrigators: These units direct a stream of water to remove plaque and food particles from around or between the teeth. Oral irrigators are useful for cleaning heard to reach areas and can be helpful to those with periodontal (gum) disease, braces or bridgework. Oral irrigators are also used to help reduce gingivitis. (Related: Oral care)

Mouthrinses: Mouthwashes are often used to mask mouth odor and freshen breath; however they are also effective in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Look for a mouthwash that is alcohol free and anti-plaque or anti-gingivitis to aid in maintaining oral care while keeping breath fresh. Some mouthrinses are available that are specifically formulated to attack bad breath.