Keep your Smile Safe.. :-)

In addition to brushing and flossing, a healthful diet (with natural or added fluoride) protects teeth from decay and keeps the gums healthy. Read on to discover how to keep your smile safe and strong.

A well-balanced diet provides the minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients essential for healthy teeth and gums. Fluoride, occurring naturally in foods and water, or added to the water supply, can be a powerful tool in fighting decay. It can reduce the rate of cavities by as much as 60 percent.

1.    Take Care of Your Toothbrush

For healthy teeth, take care of your toothbrush. Rinse it well after tooth brushing. Then, in an upright position, make sure to store it out in the open. Plenty of air flow around the bristles will help keep your brush dry; microorganisms that can grow on your toothbrush tend to thrive in a moist environment. When it is no longer effective, get a new one. The American Dental Association recommends replacing toothbrushes every three to four months, although with children you may need to change sooner. Keep an eye out for frayed, worn bristles.

2.    Brush your tongue

Brush your tongue to help fight the bacteria in your mouth. Tongue brushing is not only essential for keeping your teeth healthy, it also helps to stop bad breath. Try using a toothbrush with a cheek and tongue cleaner, such as the Colgate 360, so you can easily remove bacteria from your mouth every time you brush.

3.    Talk to Your Dentist

Your dentist and dental hygienist are there to help you with oral care. Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and voice any questions or concerns that you may have about keeping your teeth healthy. They can help you create a daily brushing and flossing plan that is suited to the specific needs of your teeth.

   4. Avoid soft Drinks & Sugary juices

What you drink can affect the health of your teeth. Beverages such as soft drinks and sugary juices have been targeted as culprits of tooth decay. Drinking less soda and more water, milk and fresh juices can help protect your teeth.

5.    Use Fluoride

Fluoride is not just for kids. This natural mineral hardens tooth enamel, helping to prevent cavities. You can get fluoride from your toothpaste, some mouth rinses and in-office or at-home treatments your dental professional may provide. Talks to your dentist about what type of fluoride treatments are right for you.