Now i am not a dentist or any expert in this field, but i know that it is important to look after your teeth. If you are anything like me you will be rushing round in the morning, having breakfast, doing things with the children and getting ready for work. On more than one occasion i have missed brushing my teeth because of time restraints.

About a year ago i started having trouble with my teeth, toothache etc. I visited the dentist which is always daunting (bearing in mind i had not been for the past three to four years) and i had them checked out and cleaned which obviously cost money, that made me realise that i need to look after them otherwise it could end up costing a small fortune, and in this economic downturn that is the last thing you need. So i asked the dentist what i need to do at home to keep my teeth healthy.

The minimum recommendation is to brush your teeth at least two times a day, usually once after you get up and again before you go to bed, or whatever way fits in with your lifestyle. Some people will brush there teeth after every meal.

When brushing do not rush (three minutes recommended) or be too aggressive as this can lead to your gums bleeding, your brush strokes should be away from your gums. Always do the back and sides of your teeth as well as the front, a lot of people concentrate on the front as that is what people tend to see but they are all as important as each other.

Change your toothbrush regularly, every three months should do it, and always make sure you get one suitable for your teeth, for example a person with sensitive teeth and gums needs a soft bristled brush, someone who has strong teeth can use a harder bristled toothbrush. Regarding sensitive teeth, there are many toothpastes out there available for people who have sensitive teeth.

As well as brushing, to keep your teeth healthy it is recommended that you use a mouthwash after brushing. Mouthwashes help reduce the amount of bacteria and plaque in your mouth, also a mouthwash with fluoride will reduce cavities.

Dental floss helps get rid of food remnants stuck in between your teeth that a toothbrush will not get too. You need to persevere with flossing as it does need some time to get used too, but will be well worth it if you achieve having healthy white teeth.

Just brushing you teeth is not enough to keep them healthy, so using mouthwashes and/or flossing on top of brushing does help, but it does not mean you do not need to visit the dentist. Keep having regular check ups, at least twice a year to ensure everything is okay.

It is important to keep your teeth healthy, not just for your appearance and confidence but also your finances, if you neglect your teeth now you could end up paying hundreds of pounds on dentistry work in the future.