1. Visit your dentist regularly

Don’t be afraid of your dentist. Visiting your dentist regularly will ensure that your teeth and mouth are in top condition. Regular checkups can also help prevent and decrease the chances of having to work on your teeth later.

2. Floss and brush, in that order

You should always floss first so that when you brush; Your toothbrush can get into all the little spaces that used to hold food particles. Flossing is important, but many people don’t do it because it “makes their gums bleed,” but what they don’t realize is that not flossing regularly is what makes their gums bleed in the first place. Healthy gums do not bleed and you need to get past the first week and a half of bleeding to get your gums healthy again.

3. Do not damage your teeth with toothpicks

If you can avoid it, floss. Toothpicks can damage the gums or chip.

4. Don’t be cheap, replace your toothbrush

Toothbrushes wear out over time and become less effective, so if you value your smile, replace your toothbrush at least every three months.

5. Enjoy the cheese

Reducing tooth demineralization is key when it comes to strengthening enamel. The proteins found in cheese can help with demineralization and actually provide calcium for tooth formation.

6. Baking soda helps whiten teeth

7. Food: friend or foe?

Some believe that fruits like strawberries can actually whiten teeth. This has not yet been proven, so it is best to brush your teeth after every snack or meal.

8. Acid reflux

Acids used in digestion inside your stomach should never come in contact with your teeth. Acid found in your stomach can weaken and damage your enamel causing sensitivity and other complications. To prevent acid reflux disease, follow these steps:

• Avoid greasy foods

• Try to eat less but more often.

• Buy antacid tablets

• Give up smoking

• Lose weight if you are overweight

9. Clean your tongue

Bad breath is largely caused by the tongue. Invest in a tongue scraper and use it regularly to help reduce bad breath.

10. Keep your mouth moist

A wet mouth is a healthy mouth, but most medications can cause saliva to dry out. To keep your mouth nice and moist, drink more water, chew sugarless gum, or ask your dentist about artificial saliva products.