White Teeth are Healthy Teeth

White teeth are not necessarily healthy teeth, white teeth are just white teeth.  You still need a complete oral hygiene program to have healthy teeth can gums.

Good oral hygiene means that:

• Your teeth are clean and free of debris
• Gums are pink and do not hurt or bleed when you brush and floss
• Bad breath is not a constant problem

If your gums hurt or bleed when you brush, and you brush regularly, you may have a problem that needs attention (such as gum disease).  Seek the advice of a dentist.

Good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do for your teeth.  Healthy teeth are important for more than just eating.  Healthy teeth allow you to look and feel good, and make it possible for you to speak properly.

Good oral hygiene will help keep your teeth white, and prevent gingivitis (gum disease), fight bad breath, and tooth decay.

Good oral hygiene begins with brushing at least two times a day.  Here is a list of practices to promote good oral hygiene:

• Brush thoroughly twice a day for at least two minutes each time.  Don’t forget to brush your tongue too.
• Floss at least twice a day between ALL of your teeth.
• Use dental products (like toothpaste) that contain fluoride.
• Rinse with an antibacterial mouth wash each time you brush (one that contains fluoride is good too, if your dentist advises you to use one).  Then rinse your mouth with water.
• Make certain that your children are drinking fluoridated water or take a fluoride supplement if your water is not fluoridated.  Check with your utility department to see if your water contains fluoride.

Follow the above guidelines and see your dentist regularly for cleanings and preventative care.  A little prevention can go a long way toward healthy white teeth.