9 of the best tips for healthy teeth

blonde boy brushing his teeth

Here are some tips on how to keep your family’s teeth health, bright and white.

1. Use a toothpaste that’s suitable for each family member

Remember that children can’t use all types of toothpaste. For one thing, not every toothpaste is formulated for them, and for another, the taste is often too strong for sensitive developing mouths to handle.

2. Model good oral hygiene

As an adult, you can set the standard for good oral hygiene by showing your children and other family members that you brush your own teeth for two minutes twice a day, floss, and get regular dental checkups. Let children watch you brushing your teeth and imitate you while using their own toothbrush – you can use exaggerated motions and show them what you’re doing close-up or look together in the mirror. Children love to copy their parents, so invite them to be a part of this daily habit.

3. Brush twice a day and floss daily.

Gum disease and tooth decay remain big problems – and not just for older people. Three-quarters of teenagers have gums that bleed, according to the ADHA. Along with the basic advice, remember: ·

  • Toothbrushes should be changed 3 to 4 times a year·
  • Teenagers with braces may need to use special toothbrushes and other oral hygiene tools to brush their teeth  Talk to your dentist or orthodontist.·
  • Older people with arthritis or other problems may have trouble holding a toothbrush or using floss. Some people find it easier to use an electric toothbrush. Others simply put a bicycle grip or foam tube over the handle of a regular toothbrush to make it easier to hold.

4. Take Care of Issues Quickly

Whether it’s a cavity, a broken tooth, or something else, take care of issues as soon as possible.

The rot from dead teeth can spread to the rest of your mouth. Gingivitis is caused by prolonged bacteria buildup, often caused by an unclean mouth. Either way, these issues need to be attacked head-on, and in good time.

Not doing so can lead to even bigger health issues. Long-lasting tooth infections can spread to the brain, leading that simple tooth pain to become in some cases a life-threatening illness.

So in short, make sure you deal with dental issues as soon as you possibly can. The rest of your health may depend on it!

5. Use oral care products you like, too

Are you still buying the toothpaste brand you used growing up in your parents’ house? Do you get the cheapest toothbrush that’s on sale even though it’s not necessarily right for your teeth? Upgrade your own oral care products to be sure they’re right for your needs.

6. Replace toothbrushes every three months

Yes, you read that right – toothbrushes need to be replaced every three months, even for children. The bristles can become worn and start to fall out in your mouth or your child’s mouth; bacteria can grow and multiply on old toothbrushes, and the toothbrushes lose their effectiveness and aren’t able to clean your mouth as efficiently. It’s a good idea to give everyone new toothbrushes for birthdays, holidays, and even in kids’ Easter baskets – they make useful gifts!

7. Propolis in toothpaste? Yes, please

Consider a toothpaste containing propolis, which has amazing properties for both adults’ and children’s teeth – it has natural antiseptic, antiviral, and other healing properties that can help freshen breath, protect tooth enamel, and care for sensitive teeth and gums. Also think about what other ingredients are in your toothpaste and the toothpaste your child uses, and look for natural ingredients and xylitol rather than sugar or other sweeteners.

8. Don’t leave kids to care for their teeth alone

It’s tempting to get your children started brushing their teeth and then leave them to it, but children need to be taught to brush properly, and supervised regularly until they are at least six years old (sometimes older, depending on your child). When your baby is young, you can “brush” their teeth for them using a piece of gauze dipped in cooled boiled water. When they are around the age of two and have 12 to 16 baby teeth, you can start using a children’s toothbrush and toothpaste to brush their teeth morning and night. When your child is around the age of three, they can start to learn to brush their own teeth.

9. Brush properly

Brush teeth for two minutes twice a day, from top to bottom, inside and out, ensuring you reach the back and upper molars as well as the backs of the teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush that’s suitable for your teeth – adult toothbrushes for adults, and children’s toothbrushes for children.

More on health from Tots to Teens:

Myopia: What To Look Out For

Getting Started On Portion Sizes

How To Keep Your Gut Happy

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