How do you care for your teeth?
By msedge
@msedge (4011)
United States
August 8, 2008 5:08pm CST
Here are some tips that help you avoid toothloss...
9 Ways to Avoid Tooth Loss
Nowadays, most people will maintain their natural teeth over their entire lifetime. Following these nine dental care tips can help ensure you're part of that lucky majority:
Drink fluoridated water and use fluoride toothpaste.
Take care of your teeth and gums. Thorough tooth brushing and flossing to reduce dental plaque can prevent gingivitis.
Avoid tobacco. Tobacco use in any form increases the risk for gum disease, oral and throat cancers, and oral fungal infection (candidiasis).
Limit alcohol. When used alone, alcohol is a risk factor for oral cancers. When used in combination with tobacco, the effects are even greater.
Eat wisely. Avoid sugary or starchy snacks and aim for five servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
Visit the dentist regularly. Checkups can detect early signs of oral health problems and lead to treatments that will prevent further damage.
Diabetic patients should work to maintain control of their disease. An increased risk of gum disease is a complication of diabetes.
If medications produce a dry mouth, ask your doctor if there are other drugs that can be substituted. If not, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and avoid tobacco and alcohol.
Before beginning any treatment for cancer, have an oral health checkup. Radiation to the head or neck and/or chemotherapy may cause problems for your teeth and gums.
I hope these helps you take care of your teeth.
1 response
@winewhisky (345)
•
8 Aug 08
Thanks for the useful info. I would add that you should brush your teeth 2-3 times aday, but not immediately after meals. (If you brush straight after eating or drinking this will just move the acid from the food or drink around your mouth so is worse than not brushing).
Also, when brushing your teeth with toothpaste, it is also a good idea to brush your tongue as this will help remove bacteria.


