Are you cleaning your teeth properly?

You only get two sets of teeth in your lifetime, so you need to make sure you take care of them as you would any other part of your body. Here are natural ways to keep your teeth clean and fresh in between dentist visits.

1. Use dental floss or a dental water jet to remove food particles between your teeth.

2. Use the red-to-white technique when brushing: always clean from the gum and down toward the tip of the tooth.

3. Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth.

4. Thoroughly rinse your teeth and gums with mouthwash.

• Have your teeth cleaned and checked by a dentist and a dental hygienist at least once a year, even if you are experiencing no problems; go every six months if necessary.
• To cleanse your mouth of bacteria, rinse it thoroughly several times a day with tea tree oil (three to four drops of tea tree oil in a glass of warm water) after brushing your teeth.
• Regularly use mouthwash containing sage or chamomile to clean and disinfect.
• Massage your gums regularly with your fingers to strengthen them. Apply gentle pressure and work in circular motions.
• A diet low in sugar deprives bacteria of their livelihood and keeps your teeth healthy.
• Brush your teeth two to three times daily, after each meal.
• When you brush, use toothpaste containing fluoride to harden your teeth.
• Replace your toothbrush regularly (at least every two months), since bacteria from your mouth will cling to it.
• If you are on the go during the day and have no chance to brush, chew some special teeth-cleaning or sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production and help remove food particles.
• Eat tooth-friendly foods. After meals, eat nuts or cheese, which counteract acidity, or a fibrous food such as celery, which removes plaque.