Medically Reviewed By Colgate Global Scientific Communications
Having healthy teeth and gums plays an essential role in your overall health. Consequently, it is important to do whatever you can to ensure they remain in great condition. Everyone knows that brushing and flossing are the foundations of a healthy oral hygiene routine. They are not, however, the only ways to maintain a bright, healthy smile.
Healthy Mouth Healthy Body notes that an apple a day may keep the dentist away. That the easiest way parents can help children prevent tooth decay and cavities at school is to monitor their eating habits. For example, parents can offer their children healthy snack alternatives such as apples, bite-sized carrots or other foods that are naturally sweet, and instruct children to avoid candies, chocolate, caramels, soda, chocolate milk and other foods that contain refined sugar. Crunchy foods like apples help to scrub away the stains on your teeth. The rigid texture works like a toothbrush when you are chewing, helping you eliminate stubborn stains over time.
It's also a good idea to brush with a fluoride toothpaste to keep your teeth healthy. Fluoride works to decrease the risk of tooth decay by building an invisible layer of protection over your teeth. This protection makes your teeth more resistant to plaque build-up and the deteriorating effects sugar can have on them.
Flossing should be a staple in any healthy oral care routine. Daily flossing aids in preventing tarter build-up, heart disease, tooth decay, and halitosis. It takes only a few moments to floss properly, but the benefits are long lasting.
According to the National Health Portal of India, milk is an excellent source of calcium and Vitamin D which is essential for tooth development, especially in children. Calcium not only gives you strong bones, but also strong teeth. More than 95 percent of the calcium in your body is found in your bones and teeth. If you're not big on milk, other excellent sources of calcium include cheese, yogurt, broccoli, and tofu.
Over time, the bristles on your toothbrush can break down, rendering them less effective at removing plaque from your gums and teeth. Always make a point to change your toothbrush every three months or so. However, should you have the flu, a cold, or any mouth infection, it's a good idea to change your toothbrush right away to prevent the return of infection.
If you truly want to keep healthy teeth and gums, it's important to avoid tobacco in any form. Tobacco use, whether chewing or smoking, contributes to an overwhelming number of cases of oral tissue damage. The powder found in tobacco not only stains your teeth, but can also weaken them. In more serious cases, it can even cause oral cancer. Learn more about how stopping tobacco use can help your teeth in the Colgate Oral Care resources.
