Taking care of your teeth can prevent expensive dental procedures in the future. And while regular dental visits do play an important role in overall care, small at home remedies can help you get that million dollar smile.

Keep a few simple steps in mind for your healthy teeth:

•    Drink plenty of water. It is a natural mouthwash that helps reduce stains left by coffee, soda, and red wine.

•    Grab a piece of cheese. After dinner, munch on some cheddar – it helps neutralize acids in your mouth.

•    Ensure that you include a lot of fruits and vegetables in your diet. By eating crisp fruits and vegetables such as apples, celery, cucumber, and carrots, your mouth is cleaned naturally.

•    Rinse your mouth with hydrogen peroxide. A small amount of this mixed with water makes a great anti-bacterial and whitening rinse after brushing. But remember, not to swallow it. Brush with baking soda, a gentle abrasive that can clean like toothpaste.

•    Soften your toothbrush. Sensitive teeth can find relief from rough bristles by running the toothbrush under hot water before brushing.

•    Avoid sugar and starches. Both sugar and carbs feed bacteria that cause tooth decay. It’s just not the sweet stuff – a handful of crackers can have the same effect as a candy bar at feeding bacteria. Switch to healthy snacks that don’t attack your teeth, like celery and carrot with hummus.

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