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Do you want to be more proactive about your oral hygiene, rather than passively letting the dentist take care of it? Wouldn't you like to care for your own teeth throughout the whole year? If you're anything like the rest of us, the answer is a resounding "Yes!"

In the mornings and evenings, you should brush. Any respectable dentist will tell you the same thing about how to care for your teeth. You owe it to yourself to follow through with your oral hygiene by adhering to at least the minimum guidelines. Also think about flossing when you do these things.

Certain foods are likely to cause damage faster than other foods. Stay away from cosmetic dental work food that are sugary and sweet. Avoid drinking beverages that are really cold or hot, and be sure you don't drink coffee when you want whiter teeth. Drink using a straw to reduce damage on teeth.

If there is even a tiny spot of blood on the sink or your mouth after you brush, it's time to see the dentist, or a periodontist. If left untreated, gums that bleed regularly can cause serious problems. Gum disease can lead to diabetes, infections, loss of teeth and bone.

If you have a tooth come out due to an injury, keep it. Use water to rinse off the tooth. Try to reinsert the tooth. If there are roots or tissue attached, do not disturb them. If you cannot put it back in, place the tooth in a small amount of milk and try to get to a dentist immediately.

Make sure to regularly replace your toothbrush. You should buy 3-4 new toothbrushes each year. Regardless of whether or not your toothbrush looks new, it probably has frayed bristles. You do not get the same effects with older toothbrushes. Replace them every three months to keep your dental hygiene at a high level.

Never overlook dental pain! If you have persistent pain, you may have an infection. You need to have this checked immediately. Call your dentist to set up an appointment.

Flossing picks are the perfect solution for those of us who can't quite remember to floss after meals. These picks are just a stick of dental floss. They are easily portable, and you'll be able to floss whenever you want. You may have an easier time remembering to floss if you use these sticks instead of traditional floss. This tip also works well for young children who might have a difficult time handling traditional dental floss.

Drinking and eating citrus-based foods isn't a great idea, as the carbonic acid in them can cause problems for your tooth enamel. Be sure to brush after eating citrus fruits or drinking citrus juices. Taking that step will help to get rid of the carbonic acids before they begin to call trouble.

When it comes to your teeth, always remember to floss. Flossing is vital to dental hygiene. Make sure to floss between all of your teeth. It may be hard to reach your back teeth. A dental pick or a floss holder can help with this. Use the flossing method you find the best.

To achieve healthy teeth, ensure you incorporate dairy products into your diet. Cheese, yogurt and milk all contain the calcium you need. Take calcium supplements if you know you're lactose intolerant. Your teeth will get whiter and you'll reduce your chances of getting cavities.

There are a lot of things you should do that will help to maintain your teeth. You cannot rely solely on your dentist to ensure optimal oral health. The dentist will want you to use these tips as well as the ones he offers.