I’m often asked, “how can I get my teeth whiter?” Or, “what can I do to keep the plaque off my teeth?”
One of the best ways you can accomplish this is by using water between your meals. Rinsing your mouth with water after eating can be a simple and effective way to wash away any lingering acids and preservatives in your mouth that cause plaque to “stick” to your teeth.
Here are some step-by-step instructions to help you do this:
- Fill a clean cup or glass with lukewarm water. Avoid using water that is too hot or too cold, as extreme temperatures can cause sensitivity.
- Take a small sip of water and swish it around your mouth for 10 to 20 seconds. Be sure to move the water around all areas of your mouth, including your cheeks, gums, and tongue.
- Spit the water out into your sink. If you are at dinner and no sink (or place to spit) is available, you may simply swish the water in your mouth and swallow it.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3 as needed until you have rinsed your mouth thoroughly. You may need to take multiple sips of water to get all areas of your mouth clean.
- After rinsing your mouth, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. This will allow your mouth to naturally neutralize any remaining acids, which can help protect your teeth from damage.
By following this simple routing, you can help protect your teeth and gums from the harmful
effects of acids and preservatives found in many foods and drinks. Additionally, rinsing your mouth with water can help promote good oral hygiene and fresher breath.
