Rinsing, brushing and flossing are the basics of oral health. However, there are other dental tips you can follow to maintain a healthy mouth. Below are four suggestions concerning everyday dental care that are surprisingly easy to implement:

Toothbrush Care. If you are like most people, you understand the importance of brushing your teeth. Nevertheless, the care of your brush is important as well. For instance, your brush should be rinsed thoroughly with water and allowed to air dry before it is used again. Additionally, keep your brush separated from other toothbrushes if you share a holder. This prevents cross contamination that can lead to gum infections. Do not cover your toothbrush or store it in a closed container, as this encourages the growth of bacteria and yeast.

Food Choices. Gum tissue is quite sensitive to common free radical damage. One way to keep your gums healthy is to add antioxidant rich foods to your diet. These include sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach, kale and red peppers, all of which have been proven to lessen your chances of developing gum disease.

Quit Smoking. Among the many other health hazards with which it is associated, smoking can also damage your teeth and gums. This damage eventually harms tissue, leading to the need for repeated root canals or the loss of teeth. The chemicals in tobacco can also cause oral cancer, even in younger adults.

Plaque Locator Products. Plaque is the number one enemy of healthy teeth and gums. However, sometimes no matter how much you floss and brush, embedded plaque is still hiding. This is because it is sometimes difficult to recognize it without plaque locator products. Such products usually come in the form of tablets which make plaque turn bright pink after the tablet is completely chewed. Using them can help you identify problem areas and subsequently place more emphasis on these areas when brushing and flossing.

Everyone wants a bright smile and healthy mouth. Fortunately, by following the dental tips listed above and seeing your dentist for regular checkups, good oral health can be yours for a lifetime.