Dental hygiene encompasses more than running a toothbrush through your mouth. Brushing once a day is simply not enough to ensure a happy and healthy smile throughout your life. Follow the steps below to avoid serious damage to your teeth and gums.

Brush Several Times a Day

The first thing you should do in the morning is brush your teeth. Over the course of the night, your mouth creates germs and bacteria which have made a home for themselves within the crevices of your teeth. Before you even have a cup a coffee, brush your teeth and rinse with a strong mouthwash.

Follow up your morning brush with two more sessions, once at lunch, and once before you go to bed. Additionally, take the time to floss each night before your head hits the pillow. Sure, your dentist encourages it, but flossing can help prevent gingivitis and other gum-related diseases. Good dental hygiene is well worth a few minutes of your time.

Food Affects Dental Hygiene

Lastly, avoid foods or habits that can cause your enamel to yellow. Coffee, cigarette smoke and red wine are some of the more common causes of yellowing teeth. Chewing sugarless gum in lieu of sugar-based gum will help prevent unnecessary cavities.