Many diseases and health problems are first caused by poor oral hygiene. However, by spending a little time familiarizing yourself with the proper method of care for the teeth and gums, many such calamities can be avoided. Read on to better understand dental care.

Fluoride is your best source for a healthy smile. Your tooth may be more likely to decay if there is no fluoride in your tap water. One choice is brushing with toothpaste containing fluoride. You can also get a mouthwash that contains fluoride.

When visiting the dentist for a procedure, if you get anxious, learn relaxation methods, like deep breathing. Use your technique whenever you need to to calm your nerves. Being honest with your dentist about your fears can help you feel more comfortable during your visits.

Brushing alone will not keep your teeth as healthy as they can and need to be. It is also a good idea to use antiseptic mouthwash as well as dental floss. Mouthwash will kill any germs that were missed with your brushing, and flossing removes food and plaque from between your teeth. For best results, brush, floss and use mouthwash in tandem with one another.

Don’t forget the back teeth when you brush! A lot of people focus on their front teeth to have a healthy smile but neglect to clean their molars, which causes tooth decay and plaque to appear. Tending to the entire tooth surface should minimize your issues.

You must not only remember to keep your teeth brushed, but your tongue needs a good cleaning too. The food you eat collects on your tongue and just leaving it there allows bacteria and germs to form. Tongue bacteria is bad for the overall health of your mouth and is a common cause of bad breath.

Your teeth and gums need to be healthy, but so does your tongue. That is why a tongue scraper can be such a useful tool. These inexpensive dental tools will allow you to remove excess bacteria from your tongue. If you don’t have a scraper, clean your tongue with a toothbrush.

To see if you are brushing your teeth well, or long enough, try using disclosing tablets or mouthwash. Before brushing, chew the tablet or swish the wash around your mouth as directed. The blue or pink stain will highlight any areas with buildup. However, before you use these types of products, make sure you have enough time for brushing away these stains. These products are not ideal to use in the morning when you are getting ready for work.

The cost of neglecting the care of your teeth can add up significantly over time. In addition to damaging your teeth, you could be putting your health at risk. Use the information above to help protect your teeth and your health.