Gum disease has been found to have a connection with endocarditis and cardiovascular diseases. Serious gum disease can cause bacteria to enter an individual’s bloodstream and this could lead to infection in the heart or other organs. It is therefore necessary to ensure that your dental health is in optimum condition by following some simple reminders.

1. Use a tongue scraper

A film of food particles is usually found on the tongue and cannot be completely removed with a brush. Microorganisms feed on the food residue and emit sulfurous or acidic compounds that cause decay or bad breath.

2. Change your brush

This should be done regularly every two or three months. Many people think that because the bristles are not frayed or spread their brush can be used longer. However, all brushes need to be replaced every two or three months. Otherwise you would just be putting more bacteria back into your mouth.

3. A diet for white teeth

Avoid red wine, tea, coffee and soda. These liquids, just like smoking, can stain the teeth and cause yellowing. If they cannot be avoided then brush immediately or rinse your mouth after consuming them.

4. Eat brushing foods

Apples, popcorn, fresh celery and carrots are foods that help clean the teeth while they are being eaten. Their crispness helps remove bacteria and food residue from the mouth. Save them for the last part of the meal especially when you have no time or opportunity to brush after eating.

5. Natural gargles and an alternative cleaning agent

Apple cider helps remove stains and whiten teeth and it also has antibacterial properties. Gargle apple cider in the morning or evening just before brushing. Baking soda can remove yellowing when used once a week. It can be used like powdered toothpaste but if your gums become too sensitive then you can switch to salt. The use of salt once a week has similar effects but baking soda produces a more noticeable difference.

6. Look at alcohol free mouthwashes

Antiseptic mouthwashes with alcohol dry out the mouth. A dry mouth is a better breeding place for bacteria and decay so make sure to get a mouth rinse without alcohol. If you already have dry-mouth as a side-effect for taking a number of medications then consider chewing on sugarless gum. This will stimulate the flow of saliva for a healthier mouth.

7. Make flossing a habit

Keep extra floss in your bag, in the car or in your office where you can easily find and use them after a meal or a snack. Having food stuck between your teeth for a considerable amount of time is never a good thing. Brush twice a day at the very least, before going to bed and after waking up in the morning are crucial times for brushing to get rid of the bacteria build-up that has occurred during sleep.

To most people, brushing their teeth is a boring chore. If you brush your teeth for more than 30 seconds in the morning and at night, you might find yourself actually in the minority! In reality, dentists recommend a whole two minutes each time you brush your teeth. Without a doubt, having an electric toothbrush is a must. Most electric toothbrushes come with a two minute timer that will shut off after two minutes of brushing to let you know when you are done. Also, by using an electric toothbrush, you do not damage your gums by pressing the toothbrush hard against your teeth. By following this process, we can make a good decision based on ones needs and ability.

* Ask your dentist! There are some things that you are going to need to find out before you buy your electric toothbrush – such as: How healthy are my gums? What type of brush head is better for me? What features should my toothbrush come with?

* Figure out your price range. Some electric toothbrushes can be purchased for fairly cheap. Just remember the ancient saying that you get what you pay for. The same is true here. Generally, a good electric toothbrush for an adult might run anywhere from $80 – $150. If it is a kids electric toothbrush that you are looking for, you may find it for much cheaper.

* After you know the price range and in what state your gums are, you can make a decision on the brush head. For example, if your gums cannot support firm bristles, make sure you find brush heads with softer bristles.

* Check out Electric Toothbrush ratings. The general public has done the homework for you already, and can determine fairly well, which Electric Toothbrushes are more durable, and are more of a bang for your buck.

Having a healthy smile is the foundation of making good impressions, and lasting relationships. For more information when you buy your electric toothbrush, visit OralB.com to find out what factors to consider when choosing an electric toothbrush and what is the best electric toothbrush for you.

The Oral-B brand is a worldwide leader in the over $5 billion brushing market. Part of the Procter & Gamble Company since 2006, the Oral-B brand includes manual and power toothbrushes for children and adults, oral irrigators, oral care centers and interdental products, such as dental floss. Oral-B manual toothbrushes are used by more dentists than any other brand in the U.S. and worldwide.