During these tough economic times, many regular activities are being put on hold — and that includes visits to the dentist, as reported by Medill Reports.
So how can people take care of their teeth now to avoid expensive dental procedures in the future? Here are a few tips for you and your kids that will help you keep your teeth healthy.
1) Drink plenty of water. It’s a “natural” mouthwash that can help reduce stains left by coffee, soda and red wine.
2) Eat a piece of cheese. After dinner, munch on some cheddar. It can help neutralize acids in your mouth.
3) Chew sugar free gum. Chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps to wash away plaque and acid and bathe teeth in needed minerals to strengthen tooth enamel.
4) Wait to brush after acidic drinks. After drinking orange juice and soda pop, don’t reach for the toothbrush right away. Wait at least 20 minutes to reduce the chance of enamel wear.
5) Rinse with hydrogen peroxide. (Adults only!) A small amount of H2O2 mixed with water makes a great anti-bacterial and whitening rinse after brushing. Just don’t swallow!
6) Brush with baking soda. It’s a gentle abrasive that can clean like toothpaste.
7) Use a straw. Might feel awkward to drink coffee or red wine through a straw, but doing so can help minimize direct contact between your pearly whites and these staining liquids.
8) Soften your toothbrush. Sensitive teeth can find relief from rough bristles by running the toothbrush under hot water before brushing.
9) Avoid sugar and starches. Both sugar and carbs can feed bacteria that causes tooth decay. It’s just not the sweet stuff. A handful of crackers can have the same effect as a candy bar at feeding bacteria.
10) Brush and floss. Every day!
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