1. Be sure you’re brushing properly.
Brushing your teeth properly is one of the quickest and easiest ways to improve your dental hygiene. When brushing, be sure to position the bristles at a 45 degree angle near the gum line. Both the gum line and the surface of the tooth should be in contact with the bristles. Use a back-and-forth, up-and-down motion to brush the outer surfaces of the teeth. Be sure to brush gently to avoid bleeding. To clean the inside surfaces of the teeth and gums, position the bristles of your brush at a 45-degree angle again and repeat the back-and-forth, up-and-down motion. Lastly, brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove bacteria, which are the leading causes of bad breath.
2. Brush regularly.
Try to brush at least twice a day to prevent the buildup of acid caused by bacteria formed during the breakdown of food. If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water after eating to minimize the amount of food that would serve as substrate for the bacteria.
3. Brush Your Tongue
It’s very important to clean the surface of your tongue daily. By using a professional tongue cleaner, you remove countless bacteria, particularly on the rougher top surface of your tongue. These bacteria can contribute to bad breath (halitosis) and negatively affect your dental health and hygiene.
4. Limit Soda, Coffee and Alcohol Consumption
Beverages such as soda, coffee and alcohol contain a high level of phosphorous. Though phosphorous is a necessary mineral for a healthy mouth, too much can deplete your body’s calcium levels, which can cause dental hygiene problems such as decay and gum disease. Soda and juice beverages contain additives such as corn syrups and dyes, which can discolor your teeth. Drinking water keeps your teeth healthy and your body hydrated.
5. Use Mouthwash
Choose a mouthwash that contains chlorine dioxide, which is very helpful in killing harmful bacteria in your mouth. Mouthwash helps to maintain good breath and strong teeth. It is not, however, a substitute for brushing or flossing regularly.
