Teach your Children the Importance of Caring for their Teeth
In a perfect world, everyone would be taught what they need to know about tooth/teeth care at a young age - but we know that's not the case. Too many people never learned the fundamentals of oral hygiene, and it holds them back later in life.
Fortunately, it's never too late to start practicing good teeth care! Here are some of the most important things to know.
I. Why do teeth decay?
Your teeth are primarily made of minerals, and have a layer of enamel on the outside which protects them from damage. Unfortunately, the enamel is also vulnerable. If food stays in your mouth, particularly sugars, it encourages bacteria to breed on your teeth.
As those bacteria eat up the sugars on your teeth, they excrete acid. This acid eats through the enamel, and then starts eating through the tooth minerals after that. This is how cavities form. Left untreated, the hole gets bigger, and eventually becomes infected, leading to numerous problems.
II. Proper brushing
Fortunately, a proper brushing can get rid of those bacteria and the leftover food that attracts them. Good brushing technique is actually easy!
Use a soft-bristled brush, so it doesn't harm your teeth or gums.
Always brush holding the head at a 45 degree angle, rather than straight on. This makes it easier to get into all the little cracks and crevaces.
Use a soft circular motion, not back-and-forth scrubbing.
Brush your tongue too! Plenty of gunk will build up on it otherwise.
Also, try to avoid eating or drinking anything after you brush, for at least 30 minutes. Otherwise it undoes the brushing.
III. How To Floss
Flossing is even easier. Just pull out a length of the floss a few inches, and wrap both ends around your two index fingers. Then gently insert it into the gap between two teeth and work it back and forth.
Be careful not to hit your gums, as it can damage them. Bleeding gums are prone to infection.
IV. Things To Avoid
What are the most harmful things you can do to your teeth?
Smoking, or use of any other oral tobacco products. And yes, even vaping is bad for your teeth.
Sugary candy or sweet baked confections.
Acidic sodas and colas.
Coffee and tea.
Dark juices and wines.
If you want to drink a beverage that stains the teeth, use a straw. That helps the liquid bypass your teeth.
Plus, of course, always make sure to contact your local dentist for a check-up at least once a year!