People who chew sugar-free gum after lunch consume 60 fewer calories during their afternoon snack, one study showed.
read morePeople who chew sugar-free gum after lunch consume 60 fewer calories during their afternoon snack, one study showed.
Capping the head of your toothbrush promotes the growth of bacteria. Instead, rinse it after brushing and place it upright in a holder.
Rinsing your mouth thoroughly with water after having wine, coffee or pigmented foods like blueberries will help prevent teeth stains.
Dental anxiety is common, so 40 percent of U.S. dentists are equipped to give pre-treatment sedatives. Ask your dentist about your options.
Brushing your teeth in a circular motion is the best way to prevent bleeding gums and build up tissue that protects your teeth.
Get your teeth checked before trying any whitening product: Chemicals that come into contact with open cavities or diseased gums can be painful.
Do you snore? Sleep apnoea affects over 18 million Americans and can be life-threatening. Find out about options like oral appliance therapy.
When did you last replace your toothbrush? If the bristles look worn or splayed, it’s time to get a new one.
Use a straw (placed toward the back of your mouth) when you drink dark or acidic beverages to help protect your teeth from staining and decay.
Smiling sends feedback to our brains, producing positive emotions. Even faking a grin leads to feeling happier, so try it!
Got bad breath? More than 25 million Americans suffer from sinus problems, and smelly breath is often a symptom. Talk to your dentist or doctor.
The No. 1 effect of medicines is decreased saliva. Chew gum, sip water and avoid caffeine to prevent oral health problems due to a dry mouth.
To avoid getting re-infected, throw away your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold, the flu or any viral or bacterial infection.
Raisins, without added sugar, are a mouth-friendly snack. Their natural compounds may prevent the growth of oral bacteria.
More than 400 commonly used prescription drugs can cause mouth dryness. Chewing gum can help increase saliva flow.
Pigmented foods like blueberries, blackberries and beeroot are top teeth strainers -- so brush or rinse your mouth after eating them.
Eighty percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats have gum disease by age 3. When did your pet last have its teeth cleaned? Talk to your vet.
Over-stressed? Subtle signs that you need to relax include teeth grinding, jaw pain, mouth sores or decreased attention to oral hygiene.
Tell your dentist if you have a new medical condition or are taking different medications. Your systemic health and your oral health are linked!
Protect your lips from sun-induced oral cancer. Use a lip balm with an SPF of 15 or greater.
It’s not just the red! White wine makes teeth more susceptible to staining. One easy solution: Swish water in your mouth after drinking.
A kiss on the lips can transmit 500 kinds of germs! Babies, children and those with weak immune system are most at risk, so go for the cheek.
Put your money where your mouth is: Instead of skipping dental appointments, ask your dentist for a cash discount if you don’t have dental insurance.
Immune system changes and higher hormone levels in pregnancy can lead to gum disease. Regular flossing and brushing helps.
Research alert: Brushing your teeth twice a day can lower your risk of heart disease!
Is your water fluoridated? Water should have 1 ppm (part per million) of fluoride to prevent cavities. Call your water company to check.
Flustered by how much floss to use? Dentists say you need 18 inches so you have a clean section for each tooth.
Distracted tooth brushing is a bad habit to develop. Aim for 30 seconds of focused brushing on each quadrant of your mouth.
Love citrus fruits and fruit juices? Eat a piece of cheese or drink a glass of milk afterwards to neutralise the acids in tart foods and drinks so they don’t attack your teeth.
Don’t delay dessert: Eating cookies or ice cream with your dinner will do less damage to your teeth than having them as a separate snack.
Who you gonna call? Make sure you know in advance how to contact your dentist or his or her colleague in an emergency. You should not be referred to a hospital emergency department.
Use a water pick to remove bacteria from the toughest area to reach: between your back teeth. Your gums will enjoy the massage, and your breath and oral health will improve.
Tooth grinding often happens during sleep, so many aren’t aware of it. But a dull, constant headache is a tell-tale sign. A mouth guard can help!
Don’t mistake your teeth for tools. Avoid using them as pliers, scissors and, especially, ice crushers.
Don’t brush where you flush: Studies show that a toilet flush ejects bacteria that may settle on your toothbrush. Keep the lid down!
Brewed tea is tops: Loaded with disease-fighting antioxidants, it can also help you avoid tooth erosion, a study suggests.
Catriona Rowntree of Network Nine shares the secrets to her glowing good health.
Read More Blog Archive
Do your bad habits suck the life out of you? Here's what to change to get more energy.
Read MoreOsteoporosis can lead to: