Brush at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don't forget to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth where your brush can't reach. Excellent daily hygiene is the foundation of preventing future decay and protecting your previous dental restorations.
Visit your dentist every 6 months for a professional cleaning (scaling) and examination. Your dentist can spot early signs of wear, secondary decay around old fillings, or gum disease long before you feel any pain, allowing for simple, conservative fixes instead of complex surgeries.
Limit your intake of highly acidic and sugary foods and beverages, as these fuel the bacteria that destroy enamel. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help wash away food debris and keep your mouth hydrated, which naturally neutralizes harmful acids.
Avoid using your teeth as tools (like opening packages or tearing tape). If you have habits like chewing on ice, pens, or hard candies, try to break them, as they can easily chip or fracture both natural enamel and expensive dental crowns or fillings.
If your dentist has prescribed a night guard for teeth grinding (bruxism) or a retainer after orthodontic work, wear it consistently. Grinding can severely wear down enamel and crack restorations, while failing to wear a retainer can undo years of alignment progress.