How To

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(42 Ratings)

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.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Dental Floss
  • Electric Toothbrushes
  • Mouthwash
  • Tooth Whitening Treatments
  • Toothbrushes
  • Toothpaste
  • Dental Floss
  • Toothpaste
  1. Step 1

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

  2. Step 2

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

  3. Step 3

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

  4. Step 4

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

  5. Step 5

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

  6. Step 6

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

  7. Step 7

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

  8. 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.

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on 11/30/2008 Good to know. Thanks!

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