We asked dental professionals to answer five basic questions about how to care for our teeth and keep them healthy. Here’s what they had to say.

How often should I really brush my teeth?

【小题1】Brushing helps remove plaque, which is the accumulation of biofilms containing microorganisms stuck to your teeth. By brushing each tooth slightly with your brush at a 45-degree angle, you’ll be able to remove plaque particles.

【小题2】

Brush your teeth first in the morning, before eating breakfast. It breaks up the biofilm and gets it ready to re mineralize(使再矿化) your teeth. Immediately after meals, you can rinse or drink water to remove acids and sugars from the mouth.

Do I really need to floss(剔牙)?

You may not want to hear it, but the answer is yes.【小题3】Flossing gets to all the areas where toothbrushes don’t. You can’t do one or the other. Floss before brushing to open up areas you may not be able to clean with just the toothbrush, like in between your teeth.

How do I whiten my teeth?

There are all kinds of products and methods to help whiten your teeth. But dental professionals say you should be cautious.【小题4】Instead, the ideal way to whiten your teeth is to ask your dentist for professional advice.

Do I really have to go to the dentist?

While proactive care at home can help keep your teeth healthy, yes—you still have to see a dentist. There are a lot of factors to deal within your dental health—but you don’t have to do it alone.【小题5】