How to Keep My Teeth Clean

The commonly-given advice of brushing your teeth after each meal by dentists is still a key factor in maintaining the condition of your teeth. Clean teeth prevents the wearing down of enamel and also prevents other dental issues such as gum disease and halitosis. Food particles get stuck on and in between your teeth, causing bacterial build-up in your mouth if not properly cleaned after each meal.

Things You'll Need

• Soft to medium-bristled toothbrush
• Fluoride toothpaste
• Floss
• Tongue scraper
• Mouthwash

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Instructions

• 1

  Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush for two to three minutes after every meal. If you are unable to brush after eating, clean your teeth in the morning and in the evening to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing breaks down plaque that forms from food and decreases the risk of oral diseases.

• 2

  Pay equal attention to the sides and back of your teeth when brushing, as they are commonly ignored during the cleaning process because they aren't prominently seen.

• 3

  Floss your teeth and along the gum line to remove left-behind pieces of food. Daily flossing cuts down on plaque build-up and reduces the risk of gum disease.

• 4

  Scrape your tongue gently with a tongue scraper to remove bacteria. Scrape from the back of your tongue and gently glide it to the front of your tongue. Rinse the tongue scraper with hot water after each scrape.

• 5

  Replace your toothbrush after three months. Toothbrushes wear down quickly due to continuous use, and the bristles lose their effectiveness when old and worn out.

• 6

  Visit your dentist twice a year to have your teeth professionally cleaned. The dentist will apply fluoride to your teeth to strengthen the enamel and maintain your teeth's whiteness.

• 7

  Consume fruit, vegetables and water daily to reduce plaque buildup and provide vitamins necessary for strong teeth.