How to Improve Your Teeth

By the time you reach adulthood, 32 permanent teeth that need daily care fill your mouth, each with seen and unseen components. Teeth consist of crowns, the part not covered by gums; a hard, shiny surface called enamel covers the crown of each tooth. The enamel protects the interior parts of the teeth--the dentin and the pulp. You need to care for your teeth and gums in order to have a beautiful smile and strong teeth. Even if you've neglected your teeth for a time, developing an effective oral regimen improves your teeth and prevents tooth loss.

Instructions

• 1

  Brush your teeth at least twice a day. Brushing your teeth removes plaque, the sticky substance on teeth that leads to tartar. Tarter develops when plaque hardens and causes tooth decay. When tartar develops, only a dental professional can remove it. The Connecticut Oral Health Initiative suggests using fluoride toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association (ADA.)

• 2

  Floss your teeth every day. Flossing gets rid of bacteria and debris between the teeth and gums and plaque. Bacteria buildup causes inflammation of the gums, a condition called gingivitis, and serious periodontal diseases. Gingivitis leads to tooth and bone loss. Flossing also reduces bad breath and cavities.

• 3

  Use fluoride toothpastes and mouthwash. Fluoride helps growing teeth in children by mixing with tooth enamel to prevent cavities, according to KidsHealth. The substance helps adult teeth by mixing with saliva, which protects teeth from plaque buildup and sugars. Commercial toothpastes and mouthwash contain fluoride. Dentists prescribe stronger toothpastes and mouthwashes for serious oral conditions.

• 4

  Eat a balanced diet and limit the consumption of sugary snacks. Bacteria in plaque thrive on foods that get stuck in the teeth. Colgate Oral and Dental Health Resources Center says bacteria produces acids and eating sugary foods leaves teeth vulnerable to acid attacks. The enamel deteriorates when constantly exposed to acids. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables contains vitamins and minerals that help your teeth.

• 5

  Stop smoking and using smokeless tobaccos. Tobacco products cause yellow and stained teeth, which don't leave attractive smiles. They also cause bad breath and increase your risks of cancer, tooth decay, tooth loss and periodontal diseases. Doctors can provide suggestions for patients trying to quit smoking if over-the-counter methods don't work.

• 6

  Control your overall health and any chronic conditions. Health conditions like cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, HIV/AIDS and Alzheimer's disease are linked to oral health. The Mayo Clinic says bacteria enters the bloodstream via the gums and damages heart valves and the immune system. Diabetics reduce their risks of gum disease when they control blood sugar. Follow your doctors' recommendations and take medications to maintain healthy teeth.

• 7

  Visit your dentist at least twice a year. Regular dental visits helps you catch dental problems before they happen or in their early stages. You should go to the dentist more often if you smoke, have chronic health conditions, suffer from HIV/AIDS or are undergoing cancer treatments, according to Colgate Oral and Dental Health Resource Center.