Taking care of your teeth should never be a job that’s left half done. When you use the right preventative dental care, your teeth can come out white, clean, and you’ll have fresh breath. By taking proper care, you’ll be avoiding gum disease, plaque build-up, cavities, and any unwanted surgeries. Here are a few of the best practices for healthy teeth.

Brush Your Teeth

This first one seems like a no-brainer but it is one that’s frequently overlooked. You should brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes. You also want the right toothbrush and toothpaste. You will want to avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes because they can strip the enamel and hurt your gums. Luckily, when you go to the dentist they give you a complimentary toothbrush and toothpaste so you know you’re getting the best quality.

Don’t Forget to Floss

You just brushed your teeth properly and you’re done, right? Not yet! Next, you’ll want to floss your teeth. Flossing your teeth can help get food out, reduce plague, and to stimulate your gums. Your tooth health is directly related to your gum health. If you keep both in tip-top condition, then you’re on your way to a healthier mouth.

Watch What You Eat

Not only does your food correlate to health and fitness, but it also relates to the health of your mouth. Avoid consuming foods that are too high in sugar. Sugar is a key catalyst for cavities. When consumed, sugar can fuel bacteria in your mouth and eventually help them eats the enamel. The enamel is the protective coat of armor for your teeth and once that’s destroyed, your teeth are susceptible to cavities.

Swish With Mouthwash

For the spots that you couldn’t reach with brushing and flossing, mouthwash comes in handy. It also helps clean out any acid, leaves your breath fresh, eliminates any unwanted bacteria, and strengthens your teeth. Be careful when using alcohol-based mouthwash, though. Alcohol-based products can dehydrate your mouth, which may lead to bad breath sooner than you’re prepared for. When in doubt, opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash.

Make An Appointment With Your Dentist

Did you know that you should be going to your dentist every six months to prevent unwanted additional visits? The six-month check-ups include a cleaning which scapes off unwanted plaque and tartar. During this appointment, they’ll also check for cavities and look for any future problems. Ask your dentist for any other preventative dental care you can take for your specific mouth.

When it comes to preventative dental care, you’ll want to create a routine out of it. The first step is brushing, then flossing, and then mouthwash. If you’re not a fan of going to the dentist’s office, then following these practices will help keep you out of the chair except for those six-month check-ups.