Keeping your teeth in good shape will always require taking care of them. The best way to do this is by brushing your teeth regularly. This should be done twice a day no matter what your age. This daily routine can help you keep your natural teeth your whole life.

Why It Is Important

Everyone’s mouth has a lot of bacteria in it. In fact, you can have as many as 700 different kinds. While some of them are good, some of them are bad. The bad kinds of bacteria produce acid every time they come in contact with sugar and carbs. It is the acid from these bacteria that will cause cavities and gum disease.

Every day there is a nearly invisible film that forms on your teeth called plaque. A toothbrush is needed to remove the plaque a couple of times a day to prevent cavities. The acid erodes the enamel on your teeth and creates pitting in them. This can make your teeth sensitive and it also makes a cavity.

The more acid there is on your teeth, which occurs when you consume a lot of sugary foods or drinks all day long, the less time it will take to create cavities. Sodas, fruit juices, and coffee also contain their own acid, which adds to the damage.

Stained Teeth

When you eat certain foods and drinks that have a heavy concentration of dye in them, this will stain your teeth. Smoking or using various types of tobacco products will also stain them quickly. Drinks such as coffee, red wine, grape juice, and more, are known to stain teeth. Brushing your teeth after drinking this type of food will help prevent staining of your teeth.

Using a Toothbrush Correctly

When using a toothbrush, it is important to use it correctly to protect your teeth. When spots are missed regularly, cavities are apt to develop. If plaque is left on your teeth for a while, it will eventually become tartar. This will usually appear on your teeth as a yellow line right above the gum line. Once this happens, a toothbrush and floss can no longer remove it, and it becomes a breeding ground for the bacteria that cause gum disease.

A toothbrush should be used on your teeth for at least two minutes each time you brush your teeth. This will help to ensure you remove the plaque on all the surfaces of your teeth and do a more careful job. Most people do not brush their teeth this long. Children should also be taught the two-minute principle so that they can build it as a habit into their daily life.

Dental Visits

Making dental visits every six months helps ensure that your teeth are in good shape and that they will stay that way. During a dental checkup, the dentist examines your teeth and mouth and can let you know of developing problems and of places you miss in your daily oral care.

Brushing your teeth is a great way to care for your teeth, but teeth cleaning is important, too.  Call us, (914) 732-3377 for more information or to set up an appointment.