Caring for your teeth is of vital importance to your general health. However, too many people neglect proper dental hygiene and end up with painful and expensive problems with their teeth. If you need to take better care of your teeth, the following advice can help you maintain a healthier mouth.

It's important to brush your teeth soon after every meal. Allowing food residue to stay on your teeth increases the chance of experiencing tooth damage. Brushing within a half hour after you eat will limit plaque damage. This smart practice will help you prevent toothaches.

Keep your toothbrush clean. Thoroughly rinse your toothbrush when you are finished. Employ a vertically standing toothbrush holder to keep the head of the toothbrush from coming in contact with other things. Do not place it in any type of container, as this could encourage bacteria to grow. Get a new toothbrush every few months.

Home whitening kits are a great short-term fix for lightly stained teeth. However, many people report burning and increased sensitivity caused by the gel uses in the kits. If oral sensitivity is turning you off of home whitening, use a fluoride gel immediately before and after you apply the whitening product. Your teeth will be noticeably less sensitive.

After you've completely brushed your teeth, brush your tongue too. All sorts of built-up gunk can develop on your tongue, and this can cause everything from bad breath to gum disease. A clean mouth means every surface, so brush your teeth and tongue and then floss for the best hygiene.

If you are serious about dental hygiene, it is imperative that you stop smoking. Smoking is terrible for your teeth in many ways. It discolors them, and damages your gums too. When your gums don't get adequate blood supply, you are susceptible to many different health problems such as gum disease.

Carefully care for your teeth now so you can have a smile you can be proud of in the future. Incorporate flossing and brushing into your daily routine for long-term benefits. Getting the proper amount of calcium and Vitamin D in your diet can also help make sure that your teeth remain strong.

Buy flossing picks if regular dental floss is difficult for you to use or to remember. These are just sticks with floss. They are convenient to use virtually anywhere. Some people find it easier to remember to use these than traditional floss too. This is also great for kids who may have trouble using regular floss.

If your gums bleed easily, don't just put up with it--see your dentist right away! Bloody, sensitive gums can be an indication of a gum infection that requires antibiotics. Infections can spread to the teeth or to other parts of the body, so you want to get them taken care of as soon as possible.

Throw out toothbrushes every two months so that you always have a clean one that can help your mouth stay healthy.