Are you one of those people who goes to sleep once dinner settles? Do you brush your teeth after lunch? Do you have food in your teeth now though even though your last meal was some time ago?

Believe it or not, many people do not practice good oral hygiene habits that they may have been taught as a child. And it is a fact that the less care we take on a daily basis means a possibly more painful visit to the dentist. This is another thing that most adults procrastinate; knowing that the longer we delay, the more work may have to be performed. It can cost a person their time, money and possibly tears.

Now, the instant tooth whitening products out now are decent and can give a person a nice smile but it does not take the place of good, old-fashioned brushing and flossing. These products are not designed to get rid of gingivitis or any other gum disease.

If the last time you brushed left a red or pink lather in your sink, do not panic. This can be prevented by following these simple rules:

• Replace your toothbrush every six months. Nowadays, stores carry brushes that let you know when it is time to change them and they cost about the same as a regular toothbrush.
• Get in the habit of flossing every day. Not just when you feel food caught between your teeth.
• Make it a point to increase your brushing power. Most of us brush our teeth once a day for about 1 minute. Some people do it in 30 seconds or less. Though a lot of friction may be used and the toothpaste lather may not be red or pink when you finish, chances are you did not clean your teeth. Dentists recommend three to four minutes and it take about that much time when done thoroughly.
• Rinse often. The main cause of gingivitis is the food that gets caught between the teeth and gums. It doesn’t even have to be some fancy-schmancy thing advertised on television. Diluted hydrogen peroxide (2:1) will instantly kill any infects inside the mouth. Even if you are not in the habit of carrying around those small bottles of mouthwash, just rinsing your mouth out with regular water will make a difference. Some people add a pinch of salt or baking soda for its purity.

Keep your dental appointments. Even if it is only for a basic exam, the staff can see what what’s happening inside your mouth better than you can. There is no need to be afraid of the dentist or their staff as there are many who take pride in their work and want to see their patients happy – not running in the other direction.

Remember, gingivitis that is left untreated can result in tooth loss by excessive plaque buildup. No special potions, mints or new infomerical idea will prevent it nor stop it once it happens. Be good to your gums and they will return the favor!