10+ Simple Dental Tips for Healthier Teeth Every Day

Proper dental hygiene plays a crucial role in our overall health. However, the basic brushing habits and familiar products we’ve relied on since childhood may not always be sufficient. That’s why it’s essential to care for our teeth correctly, following the best practices and expert recommendations from dentists and scientists. We have gathered several practical tips to help you establish simple daily habits that keep your teeth healthy and prevent most dental issues in the future.

1. Brush before breakfast

It’s a common misconception that brushing your teeth right after breakfast is the best way to start your day. Actually, brushing before breakfast is the ideal time. This is because the acids in food and drinks can temporarily weaken your tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to damage from brushing. Waiting 30 minutes after eating allows your saliva to neutralize the acids and remineralize your teeth, making them stronger and less vulnerable to abrasion from your toothbrush. So, start your day with a fresh mouth and a healthy smile by brushing before you enjoy your breakfast!

2. Start brushing with the most difficult places

There are various techniques for brushing your teeth, but only a few are truly safe for daily use. Dentists recommend starting with the hardest-to-reach areas and finishing with the easier ones.

However, many people do the opposite—beginning with the front teeth while neglecting the inner surfaces and other crucial areas for dental health. To build a better habit, start at the back of your mouth and work your way forward, cleaning each tooth individually. Begin with the inner surfaces, then move to the outer sides, and finish with the chewing surfaces.

3. Rinse after brushing

Rinsing your mouth with water after brushing can wash away the fluoride from your toothpaste. Instead, spit out the excess toothpaste and let the fluoride work its magic.

4. It’s OK to brush without any toothpaste

If you’re unsure which toothpaste to use, try brushing dry—without any toothpaste or water. The bristles alone are effective at disrupting bacteria. Toothpaste is simply an additional aid. In fact, research shows that dry brushing can reduce plaque buildup, bleeding, and gingivitis by at least 50%.

5. Add mouthwash to your routine

Mouthwash is no substitute for brushing and flossing, as it can’t remove the bulk of bacteria from your teeth and gums. However, it does offer additional oral health benefits. The best time to use it is after thoroughly brushing your teeth. To maximize its effectiveness, avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after rinsing.

6. Add gums as well

Chewing gum after a meal is a great way to support your oral health. It stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth. Saliva is rich in calcium and phosphate, which re-mineralize your teeth, strengthen enamel, and even reduce tooth sensitivity. Just be sure to choose sugar-free gum, as harmful oral bacteria feed on the sugars we consume.

7. Switch to soft-bristled brush

Toothbrushes come in various bristle strengths, but if you’re using a hard-bristled brush, it might be time to switch to a soft one. Even medium-bristled brushes can be too abrasive and cause damage to your gums and teeth over time.

That being said, a soft-bristled brush doesn’t have to be the cheapest option. Inexpensive brushes may not have been tested for safety and effectiveness. It’s always best to choose a high-quality brush that has the appropriate seals and approvals for optimal care.

8. Don’t brush too often

It’s well known that brushing at least twice a day is essential, as once a day isn’t enough to keep teeth clean. Some people prefer brushing three times or more, which isn’t necessarily harmful—but improper technique poses a greater risk than frequent brushing.

As with many things in life, more isn’t always better. Brushing too often can wear down enamel, leading to tooth sensitivity. This may also make your teeth appear more yellow, as the underlying dentin becomes more visible. In some cases, excessive brushing can even contribute to gum recession.

9. Water is the best beverage for your teeth

Just like saliva, drinking water helps keep your mouth clean. Unlike juice, soda, or sports drinks, it rinses away food particles without leaving behind harmful sugars. Water also helps dilute the acids produced by bacteria in your mouth. For an even more effective clean, consider using a water flosser, which is often more efficient than traditional floss.

10. Eat more crunchy foods

Fresh, crunchy foods are rich in healthy fiber and are excellent for your teeth. Raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts top the list, as they help clean teeth, stimulate saliva production, keep the mouth hydrated, and slow bacterial growth.

11. Limit acidic foods and drinks

Foods and drinks high in acid can erode tooth enamel. Try to consume them in moderation and rinse your mouth with water afterward.

Now that you know how to care for your teeth, have you ever wondered if your diet could be affecting your overall health too? Stay tuned for our next article on the 8 warning signs you might not be getting enough protein!