Dental health is not just significant in keeping your smile bright and appealing. Healthy teeth and gums are also important for your overall health. Poor maintenance of the teeth and gums can lead to dental issues such as enamel erosion and gum disease.
In this article, we discuss how to strengthen teeth and gums.
What Helps Strengthen Teeth?
There are a few basic things that you can do to maintain the strength of your teeth and gums:
Brushing the Proper Way Twice a Day
Brushing your teeth properly every day is the first step in learning how to strengthen teeth and gums. To keep your teeth clean and strong, the American Dental Association (ADA) suggests brushing twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
A toothbrush cleans your teeth of germs and food particles before they cause enamel erosion. The ADA recommends brushing at a 45-degree angle along the gumline using a soft-bristled toothbrush. This angle allows you to gently sweep away plaque and remaining food particles away from the enamel surface. Move back and forth across two to three teeth at a time in a back-and-forth motion.
Daily Flossing
In addition to brushing, the ADA also recommends flossing daily to remove any leftover debris. It ensures that you can remove any build-up from the tight crevices of the mouth where the brush may not be able to reach.
This is why a floss thread is used between each space of two touching teeth in a C-shaped motion against the enamel. You can also use flossing devices available in the market nowadays to make the activity easier to manage.
A Balanced Diet
You may wonder if milk is good for your teeth since it contains calcium or if there are vitamins to strengthen teeth? Among the natural ways to strengthen teeth, one is to simply maintain a balanced diet. Here is what you can do:
- Limit sugar intake
- Eat whole gains
- Consume fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
- Have low-fat dairy
- Avoid acidic citrus foods, sticky & hard candies, dried fruit, crunchy foods, sodas & sports drinks, and sugary coffee drinks
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Fluoride Toothpaste & Mouth Rinse
Fluoride toothpaste and mouthwashes help to strengthen teeth and prevent dental decay. The ADA also suggests using fluoridated toothpaste. Brushing and applying fluoride should be done right after you wake up and right before you go to bed.
Not Skipping on Dental Visits
You should not visit the dentist only when you have a specific dental issue. It is recommended to have a family dentist and attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings. This can prevent severe dental issues — saving you time and money in the long run as well as keeping your teeth and gums healthy without the hassle.
Dental Treatment in Chula Vista
Dr. Nick in Chula Vista offers a wide range of dental services at a comfortable and hygienic clinic. To learn more about how to strengthen teeth and gums or book your appointment, please visit or call us.