By Joel Stice
Brush properly
To prevent plaque buildup, it's important to brush your teeth properly in gentle, circular motions. Rushing or neglecting proper brushing can lead to gum disease and calculus buildup.
Don’t neglect your tongue
Don't forget to brush your tongue to avoid bad breath and other oral health issues caused by plaque buildup.
Use a fluoride toothpaste
Toothpaste should contain fluoride, as it is the leading defense against tooth decay by fighting germs and providing a protective barrier for teeth. Fluoride's importance outweighs other factors such as whitening power and flavors.
Consider mouthwash
Mouthwash is advertised as essential for oral health, but people may skip it due to lack of knowledge. It reduces acid, cleans hard-to-reach areas, and re-mineralizes teeth, making it useful as an adjunct tool, especially for children and older people.
Drink more water
Water remains the healthiest beverage for overall and oral health. After each meal, it's recommended to drink water as it can mitigate the negative effects of acidic and sticky foods and drinks between brushings.
Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
Fresh, crunchy produce is the best choice for healthy teeth, and parents should encourage their children to eat harder-to-eat and chew foods at a young age, says Schwartz.