1. Grip Your Toothbrush Like A Pencil
Does your toothbrush look as if it’s been used to clean the car? If so, you’re probably brushing too hard. Contrary to what some scrub-happy people think, brushing with force is NOT the best way to remove plaque. The best way is to place your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle against your gums and gently move it in a circular motion, rather than a back-and-forth motion. Grip your toothbrush like a pencil so you don’t scrub too hard.
2. Change Your Brush
Throw away your toothbrush or change the head of your electric toothbrush at least every three months. Otherwise, you’re just transferring bacteria to your mouth over and over again!
3. Use Alcohol-free Mouthwash
Most over the counter mouthwashes have too much alcohol which can dry out the soft tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacteria. Some studies even suggest a link between mouthwashes containing alcohol and an increased risk of oral cancer. To be safe, be a teetotaller when you chose your mouthwash.
4. Clean Your Tongue
A major cause of bad breath is the build-up of bacteria on your tongue. A daily tongue scraping will help to banish this. Using a tongue scraper is more effective than brushing your tongue with a toothbrush.
5. Cut Back On Sugar
Even if you’re an adult, avoid sugary foods. Sugar + bacteria = oral plaque. Plaque then leads to bleeding gums, tooth decay and cavities. Plus, the acid in refined sugars and carbonated beverages dissolves your tooth enamel.
6. Eat Tooth-Cleaning Foods
Foods that are firm or crisp help to clean your teeth. Apples, raw carrots, celery and (unsweetened) popcorn. For best results, make these “detergent” foods the final food you eat in your meal if you know you can’t brush your teeth.
7. Check your breath
Lick your palm and smell it while it’s still wet.
If you smell something, it’s time for a sugar-free breath mint or time to brush your teeth.
To transform your smile, contact Appledore Dental Clinic Bracknell and you will start smiling more
