When it comes to your teeth, you absolutely have to take care of them. While you may not appreciate your teeth in your younger years, you'll sure regret it later on in life if and when you have to get fitted with dentures. Use this article and learn how to properly maintain your teeth.
If you have questions for your dentist, write them down and bring them to your appointment. Once your cleaning and exam begin, it is hard to get a word in edgewise, especially with picks, pokers and mirrors in your mouth! Speak up beforehand, and a dental hygienist can answer your questions before your mouth is too full, or too sore to ask afterwards.
Flossing is just as important as brushing your teeth. If you do not floss after every meal, bacteria will build up between your teeth and damage them. Take a few minutes to floss after you eat, and you will notice a difference. Your teeth will look whiter after a few months of flossing on a regular basis.
Take care when choosing a toothbrush. You will want to avoid a harder bristled brush to avoid gum irritation from harder brushing. Consider using a toothbrush that also incorporates a tongue cleaner. This can be of great use when you have had the occasion to drink beverages that stain easily.
Brushing your tongue is just as important as brushing your teeth. Food particles get caught on your tongue as well as your teeth. Left undisturbed, these particles can attract bacteria. This can cause bad breath, and it just isn't good for you.
To keep your teeth healthy and free of cavities you should avoid drinking flavored fruit juices. Fruit juices contain tons of cavity-causing sugars. In fact, although fruit juices sound as if they are good for you, in reality, they have just as much sugar as soda pop. Drink water instead.
If you are serious about dental hygiene, it is imperative that you stop smoking. Smoking is terrible for your teeth in many ways. It discolors them, and damages your gums too. When your gums don't get adequate blood supply, you are susceptible to many different health problems such as gum disease.
If you are deathly afraid of spending time in the dentist's chair, you might be tempted to skip cleanings or procedures altogether. This is a bad idea, especially since poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease or even diabetes. Consider sedation dentistry, in which the patient is not awake during the appointment. Furthermore, some dentists will prescribe sedatives prior to the appointment. If you use either option, you must have someone who can drive you to and from the appointment.
As was mentioned in the beginning of this article, taking care of your teeth now, will pay off tenfold later on down the line. Make sure to implement the tips and tricks mentioned and you will be well on your way towards healthy and bright looking teeth. Your teeth will thank you for it!