How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Among children who are 6 to 18 years old, the percentage of decayed permanent teeth has decreased by about 57 percent since the 1970s. Part of this can be attributed to good preventative measures; follow these steps to keep your teeth clean and healthy.

Things You’ll Need:

· Dental Floss

· Electric Toothbrushes

· Mouthwash

· Tooth Whitening Treatments

· Toothbrushes

· Toothpaste

· Dental Floss

· Toothpaste

Instructions

Step 1 Make it a habit to brush your teeth after eating, using a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles.

Step 2 Use a toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent tooth decay and repair tooth enamel.

Step 3 Buy a new toothbrush every 3 or 4 months. Bacteria can grow on toothbrushes, and the bristles wear down and become ineffective.

Step 4 Brush your tongue to freshen your breath and remove bacteria, or use a tongue cleaner, available in some health food stores.

Step 5 Use dental floss and a fluoride rinse after brushing your teeth.

Step 6 Try an herbal rinse that contains goldenseal, echinacea or tea tree oil to prevent and heal inflamed gums and kill bacteria.

Step 7 Snack on raw vegetables, fruit or unsweetened yogurt, and eliminate or reduce consumption of sugar and sugary foods.

Step 8 Eat foods high in calcium such as broccoli, sardines, milk and fortified orange juice.

Tips & Warnings

· Get regular dental exams and cleanings.

· Choose a toothbrush that fits easily into your mouth and can reach into the back and corners.