by Fibro Viv

Created on: May 26, 2007

Good dental hygiene involves brushing your teeth at least twice daily. Floss before you brush to remove any food particles that get stuck in between your teeth. It also helps stop plaque build-up due to any remaining food particles. Brushing your teeth in small circular motions for about two to three minutes should do the job. While you are brushing your teeth, remember to clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Replace your tooth brush every three months and consider using fluoridated toothpaste. You must have your teeth cleaned professionally and keep up those dental check-ups, twice yearly.

Diet and nutrition also affect your teeth. Limit sodas, coffee and alcohol consumption. Sugary and starchy foods generate acid which can lead to plague, then tooth decay. The beverages have high levels of phosphorous and deplete the body's level of calcium. It can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Personal habits such as cigarette smoking contribute to diseases such as oral cancer. Beware of the aging process, after age 30 women experience a reduction in bone density. The calcium must be restored with a daily supplement and eating fruits and vegetables high in calcium.

Here is a short quick list:

* Make sure you are maintaining a good healthy diet
* Avoid addictions or habits that cause oral disease
* Consider using fluoridated toothpaste
* Floss your teeth prior to brushing
* Brush at least twice daily
* Clean your tongue and the roof of your mouth
* Have your teeth cleaned professionally on a regular basis
* Visit your dentist twice yearly
* Remember to replenish your calcium loss with vitamin supplements
* Replace your tooth brush every three months

Educate your spouse and family, keep records and calendar reminders for replacing tooth brushes, cleaning teeth and dental check-ups. We all lead busy lives and sometimes forget to replace tooth brushes as often as we should.

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