Wait about 30 minutes after you eat before you brush, since eating can soften the enamel on your teeth. If you brush too soon after eating, you can remove enamel, which will weaken your teeth over time. [2] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Use a toothbrush approved by the American Dental Association (ADA), as these must undergo a variety of safety and quality control tests. [4] X Trustworthy Source American Dental Association World’s largest dental professional organization and advocate for proper oral health Go to source Be sure to brush your tongue to remove bacteria there as well.

Using baking soda too often can lead to enamel damage, so do this about once a week.

To use the dental scraper, hold the tip against your tooth at your gumline and slowly glide it towards the biting edge of the tooth. Rinse it under running water, then repeat until all teeth are smooth and free of tartar. Use a handheld mirror to help you see tartar buildup, which looks like white or yellow stains. [10] X Research source

The bacteria that cause plaque love starchy and sugary foods. The more of these you eat, the more bacteria will thrive in your mouth. Be mindful of eating these foods only in moderation, and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash shortly after eating. [12] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source

Write down your reasons for wanting to quit and remind yourself of these to stay strong through the quitting process. If you need more help to quit smoking, consider nicotine replacement therapy, such as nicotine gum, patches, or lozenges. [14] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source If it’s too hard to quit all at once, try cutting back at first. Gradually reduce the number of cigarettes you smoke every day until you don’t smoke anymore.

Tartar buildup is more than just unsightly. Your body sees tartar as an infection and tries to attack it. Long-term tartar buildup can weaken your immune system and lead to other health problems throughout your body, including stroke, heart disease, and dementia. [16] X Research source