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.
- Difficulty:
- Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
- Dental Floss
- Electric Toothbrushes
- Mouthwash
- Tooth Whitening Treatments
- Toothbrushes
- Toothpaste
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1
Make it a habit to brush your teeth after eating, using a toothbrush with soft, rounded bristles.
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2
Use a toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent tooth decay and repair tooth enamel.
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3
Buy a new toothbrush every 3 or 4 months. Bacteria can grow on toothbrushes, and the bristles wear down and become ineffective.
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4
Brush your tongue to freshen your breath and remove bacteria, or use a tongue cleaner, available in some health food stores.
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5
Use dental floss and a fluoride rinse after brushing your teeth.
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6
Try an herbal rinse that contains goldenseal, echinacea or tea tree oil to prevent and heal inflamed gums and kill bacteria.
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7
Snack on raw vegetables, fruit or unsweetened yogurt, and eliminate or reduce consumption of sugar and sugary foods.
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8
Eat foods high in calcium such as broccoli, sardines, milk and fortified orange juice.
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1
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.
