Brush up for a healthy mouth
Three simple ways to maintain oral health and help prevent gum disease
Healthy teeth and gums are important for total body health. You know that regular brushing and flossing are the best ways to keep your teeth and gums in good shape. But there are other things you can do as part of your personal dental plan.
Keep your toothbrush clean. After using, rinse your brush with warm water. Tap it against the edge of the sink a few times to flick off water and any food particles. Leave your brush in an upright position to air-dry. Don’t cover it up. That can cause germs to grow.
Snack on crunchy foods that help clean your teeth, such as apples, celery, and carrots. They stimulate your gums, which helps keep them healthy. Studies show that people who eat high-fiber foods are less likely to develop gum disease.
Enjoy foods rich in calcium, like low-fat dairy products. Calcium makes teeth stronger. Snack on low-fat yogurt or cottage cheese. Dark leafy greens, like spinach, kale, and collards, are also a good source of calcium. So are white beans, soy beans, salmon, and sardines.
