From the time your first tooth poked its way through your tender gums, those pearly whites have played an enormous role in your life. Not only do the 32 teeth in your mouth help you talk and chew, they can make or break your appearance. Although aesthetics are important, tooth and gum health is essential. In the last few years, researchers have uncovered a link between periodontal (gum) disease and an increased risk of heart disease. One study found that men with periodontal disease had a whopping 72 percent greater risk of developing coronary disease than those with healthy gums. To keep your teeth in tip-top shape, we've come up with the following tips that go far beyond just brushing, flossing and your regular visits to see the doctor or hygienist.
Go on a white-teeth diet. What goes in, shows up on your teeth. So if you're drinking red wines and black tea, or smoking cigarettes or cigars, expect the results to show up as not-so-pearly whites. Other culprits to blame for dingy teeth include colas, gravies, and dark juices. Bottom line: If it's dark before you put it in your mouth, it will probably stain your teeth:
Step 1: Brush your teeth immediately after eating or drinking foods that stain teeth.
Step 2: Be conscious of the foods and drinks in your diet that can stain your teeth, and eat only when a toothbrush is around. If there isn't one, eat an apple for dessert -- it will provide some teeth-cleaning action, or rinse with water.
Change your toothbrush, or the head of your electric toothbrush at least every two to three months.
Use alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse away bacteria. Most over-the-counter mouthwashes have too much alcohol, which can dry out the tissues in your mouth, making them more susceptible to bacterial growth and bad breath.
Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper every morning to remove tongue plaque and freshen your breath. One major cause of bad breath is the buildup of bacteria on the tongue, which a daily tongue scraping will help remove.
Avoid sugary foods. Sugar plus bacteria equals oral plaque. Plaque, then, leads to bleeding gums, and tooth decay. Plus, the acid in refined sugars and carbonated beverages dissolves tooth enamel.