Sometimes, we forget to brush our teeth before bed, and it happens to everyone. However, missing this step can be problematic because bacteria and food particles can build up in our mouths. While some oral bacteria are beneficial, others can lead to gum disease and cavities. Even if you brush twice a day, these issues can still occur if your oral hygiene routine isn’t thorough.

Important: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. For personalized guidance, consult with your dentist or healthcare provider.

1. Take care of your toothbrush and regularly change it.

Choosing a small or medium-sized toothbrush with bristles that can reach into those nooks between your teeth is super important. Skip the covers for your toothbrush—they can trap bacteria. After each use, just rinse your brush well with water and let it air dry. Oh, and keep it away from your toilet to dodge any germ transfers. And remember, swap out your toothbrush regularly as the bristles wear down, making them less effective at cleaning your pearly whites.

2. Visit your dentist at least twice a year.

We understand that dental visits aren’t the most enjoyable experience, but they’re essential for preventing problems before they become serious. Even with consistent brushing and flossing, there are areas in your mouth that are difficult to reach.

During your dental appointment, the dentist focuses on cleaning these hard-to-reach spots around your gum line, removing plaque and tartar buildup. This is crucial for preventing cavities and maintaining oral health. Many people find cleanings refreshing and enjoy the smooth, clean feeling afterward. It’s recommended to visit the dentist at least twice a year.

If there are concerns about cavities or more serious issues, your dentist may use X-rays and lasers to get a detailed view. They also take precautions, such as wearing masks and gloves, to minimize the risk of spreading bacteria and germs.

3. Change the eating habits.

Improving your diet can do wonders for your overall health, including your teeth. A study from The British Medical Journal highlighted that tweaking what you eat could even prevent or reverse tooth decay, depending on its current stage. We know consuming sugary stuff leads to tooth problems, but changing your eating habits could eliminate that issue.

First off, aim for more calcium. It’s a big player in building strong bones and teeth, so try to fit dairy like milk, yogurt, sour cream, and cheese into your daily intake.

Swap sugary drinks for the good stuff. Cut back on soda, juice, and fizzy beverages. Pick more fruit smoothies or unsweetened tea. Water’s a real champ—it helps with hydration and boosts saliva flow, both good for your body and teeth.

4. Chew gum without sugar

Saliva is crucial in washing away food and bacteria from your teeth. Yet, the minerals in toothpaste can get washed off due to acidic saliva, creating a bacteria-friendly environment leading to tooth decay and gum problems.

Chewing sugar-free gum amps up saliva production with a neutral pH, balancing mouth acidity and guarding teeth and gums. It’s not a substitute for brushing and flossing, though!

Gum with xylitol has shown promise in killing cavity-causing bacteria instantly. Also, sugar-free gum strengthens tooth enamel, making it more resistant to cavity-triggering acids. Chewing promotes saliva production, offering natural fluoride that fortifies enamel and aids in keeping teeth clean by preventing food buildup in tooth grooves.

5. Eliminate the tonsil stones

If you’ve noticed yourself coughing up small, yellowish chunks from your throat, those might be tonsil stones. While these stones aren’t harmful, they can cause bad breath. They are bacteria and debris that form in the crevices of your tonsils, ranging from small, soft bits to larger, hardened stones. While they’re usually harmless, in some cases, they can lead to infections. To prevent them, try using non-alcoholic mouthwash regularly to reduce bacteria in your mouth and floss regularly.

6. Add supplements and vitamins to your diet.

Avoiding sweets is a good step, but there’s more to boost your saliva’s fight against dental plaque. Vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining dental health.

Steer clear of sugary treats like jelly that fuel plaque. After indulging in sweets, brushing your teeth within 20 minutes is helpful to ward off potential cavities.

Opt for whole-grain foods rich in vitamin B, iron, and magnesium, aiding calcium absorption and fortifying teeth. Enhance your vitamin D intake by consuming seafood such as salmon, herring, tuna, and mackerel.

7. Try coconut oil pulling.

Coconut oil offers various health perks for the body, including a natural way to shield your teeth from decay through oil pulling. This method involves swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for about 20 minutes to draw out bacteria and promote natural healing for your teeth.

Remember, don’t swallow the oil. It’s an easy yet highly effective practice that boasts numerous health advantages! While oil pulling doesn’t reverse tooth decay, it is a preventive measure against cavities. It’s worth noting that combining this technique with regular brushing and flossing can make it twice as impactful in maintaining oral health.

8. Natural toothpaste

Making an alternative homemade toothpaste with natural ingredients is a cool way to boost oral health. The recipe is simple and requires ingredients that can be bought in almost every store, they are natural and won’t harm you. For the toothpaste you’ll need:

2 tbsp of calcium powder: Adding calcium carbonate can help your teeth heal and add minerals, making the cavities disappear.
1/2 tsp of liquid stevia
1 tbsp of salt
1/2 cup of baking soda
1/2 cup of coconut oil: Coconut oil has many antibacterial components that can rid the mouth of impurities and cavities. You may also want to try swishing this toothpaste for a couple of minutes before spitting it out to get more benefits.
1 tbsp of peppermint flavor
Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until you achieve a smooth paste. It should have a consistent texture without any lumps. Substitute your regular toothpaste with this homemade blend for a natural alternative.

9. Drink more water

Do you enjoy your morning latte or a daily cup of coffee? Consuming acidic beverages like coffee or tea, especially with added sugar or milk, can increase your risk of cavities if your teeth are exposed to these drinks for extended periods. It’s best to limit your beverage consumption to around 20 minutes and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

The problem with coffee mixed with sugar or cream is that the sugars can linger in your mouth. To help minimize this, drink water along with these beverages to help wash away the sugar and reduce its impact on your teeth. Using a straw can also help keep sugary liquids from directly contacting your teeth.

After brushing your teeth, consider gargling with a saltwater solution to help prevent food buildup. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, take a sip, and gargle for about 15 seconds.

Taking care of your teeth is important because they are often one of the first things people notice. Regular care can make a significant difference in the appearance and health of your teeth.