10 cheap ways to care for your teeth

Even in the best of times, dental care can be expensive. In these hard-pressed times, it's an expense many families are avoiding.

About half of 300 Chicago area dentists reported in a recent survey that people are putting off needed dental work. Also, 40 percent of dentists said patients are shying away from cleanings and other preventive care.

But taking care of your teeth doesn't have to cost a lost of money. Here are 10 inexpensive things to do that can make a difference, according to the Chicago Dental Society:

1) Drink plenty of water. It's a "natural" mouthwash that can help reduce stains left by coffee, soda and red wine.

2) Eat a piece of cheese. After dinner, munch on some cheddar - it can help neutralize acids in your mouth.

3) Chew sugar free gum. Chewing gum increases saliva production, which helps to wash away plaque acid and bathe teeth in needed minerals to strengthen tooth enamel.

4) Wait to brush after acidic drinks. After drinking orange juice and soda pop, don't reach for the toothbrush right away. Wait at least 20 minutes to reduce the chance of enamel wear.

5) Rinse with hydrogen peroxide. A small amount of H2O2 mixed with water makes a great anti-bacterial and whitening rinse after brushing. Just don't swallow!

6) Brush with baking soda, a gentle abrasive that can clean like toothpaste.

7) Use a straw. Might feel awkward to drink coffee or red wine through a straw, but doing so can help minimize direct contact between your pearly whites and these staining liquids.

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

9) Avoid sugar and starches. Both sugar and carbs can feed bacteria that causes 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.

10) Brush and floss.

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