| How to Remove Eyelash Extensions Posted: 03 Jun 2019 05:00 PM PDT Eyelash extensions make your eyes look lovely, but they don't last forever. Lash extensions are secured with a very strong adhesive that resists soap and water, so they won't come off easily. You'll need to break down the glue before you can remove the extensions without damaging your natural lashes. Fortunately, you can remove your lashes at home using glue remover. If your lashes are starting to fall off, you can remove the rest with steam and oil. However, it's best to get your eyelash extensions removed by a professional technician. EditApplying Glue Remover at Home - Buy a professional grade eyelash extension glue remover. Since the glue used to apply eyelash extensions is very strong, regular eyelash glue remover may not work on your lashes. Get glue remover that's labeled for use on eyelash extensions and that says it's "professional grade."[1]
- You can find eyelash extension glue remover at a drugstore, in a beauty supply store, or online.
- If you had your extensions professionally done, ask the technician which solvent they uses. Then, see if you can purchase it from them.
- Remove your eye makeup to easily see where the extensions start. Apply eye makeup remover to a cotton swab or pad, then wipe it over your eyes. Be sure to remove all of your mascara and eyeliner. This will allow you to identify where your real lashes end and the extensions begin.[2]
- You can use your normal makeup remover for this step.
- Don't use a cotton ball or a fuzzy pad, since these could leave lint or cotton fibers behind on your lashes.
- Place under-eye pads below your eyes to protect your skin. Under-eye pads are thin, C-shaped pads that have an adhesive on the back. You can use these pads to protect the delicate skin under your eyes. To apply them, pull the back off the adhesive side of a pad. Then, position the pad under your eye with the scooped out side facing your eye. Lightly pat along the surface of the pad to make it stick.[3]
- This step is optional, but it will help keep the glue remover off of your skin. If you get the glue remover on your skin, it may cause itching or irritation.
- You can find under eye pads at your local beauty supply store or online.
- Apply eyelash glue remover to 2 brush applicators or spoolies. Use disposable brush applicators or spoolies so you can easily apply the glue remover to your lashes. Coat the brush end of both applicators or spoolies with the glue remover. Then, set 1 of the applicators or spoolies aside for later.[4]
- You're going to use 1 applicator or spoolie to apply the glue remover. Then, you'll use the second applicator to remove your extensions.
- If you prefer, wait to apply the glue remover to the second applicator until you need it. However, it will be difficult for you to see after you apply the glue remover because your eyes will be closed. It's best to do this ahead of time.
- Set the second applicator or spoolie down somewhere close by so that you can easily find it with your eyes closed.
- Close the eye you're working on so you don't get the glue remover in it. The glue remover can sting and irritate your eyes, so it's important that you don't get it in them. Tightly close your eyes before you apply the remover, then leave them closed until you're finished removing the extensions.[5]
- It's best if you can have someone help you apply the glue remover and take off your extensions. That way, they can apply the glue remover to both eyes at the same time so you'll be able to finish the process faster. Typically, this is the way a professional technician will do it. However, it's okay to do it yourself if you don't have help.
- Swipe the applicator or spoolie from the midpoint of your lashes to the tips. Pull the applicator or spoolie through your lashes like you're applying mascara. However, focus on the ends of your lashes where the extensions are applied. You don't need to get the glue remover on your natural lashes below the extensions.[6]
- It's okay to open the eye you aren't working on so you can see what you're doing. Just make sure you keep the eye you're working on closed.
- Sweep glue remover on the lower part of your lashes, avoiding the lash line. Apply a thin layer of glue remover just below the midpoint on your lashes. This will make sure that all of the glue dissolves. However, don't put the glue remover on the roots of your lashes or your lash line. It may irritate your skin, and you don't want to risk getting it into your eye.[7]
- It's okay to skip this step if you know you've already coated the area where the glue is located. You just need to apply the remover over the glue itself.
- Let the glue remover sit for 3 minutes so it can break down the glue. Set a timer and wait 3 minutes for the glue remover to dissolve the glue. Leave your eye closed while the glue remover is on your lashes. Don't rinse off the remover after 3 minutes because you still need to remove the extensions.[8]
- Some glue removers may recommend leaving the product on for up to 5 minutes. Read your label to check the instructions for the product you're using.
- Pull the second applicator or spoolie through your lashes to remove the extensions. Retrieve the second applicator or spoolie that you coated with glue remover earlier. Then, slowly pull the applicator or spoolie through your lashes, starting below the midpoint. The lash extensions should come off in the brush. Use your fingers to pick the lashes off the applicator or spoolie, then continue working until all of your extensions are gone.[9]
- You may need to make several passes to remove all of your extensions. You'll know they're all gone when you just see your natural lashes, which will be shorter and an even length.
- Discard the extensions once you've removed them.
- Use a gentle eye makeup remover to clean away excess glue remover. Soak a cotton swab or pad with your makeup remover, then wipe it over your eyes to clean away any excess glue or glue remover. Make several passes to make sure the area is totally clean.[10]
- If you want to cleanse your face, it's okay to do that instead.
EditUsing Steam and Oil - Remove your eye makeup so you can tell where your natural lashes end. Use a gentle eye makeup remover to wipe away any mascara or eyeliner. This makes it easier for you to see where your real lashes end and the extensions begin.[11]
- Use your normal makeup remover to clean your eyes.
- Fill a bowl with steaming hot water. Boil water on the stove or in the microwave. Then, carefully pour the water into a heat-safe bowl. Set the bowl on a table or countertop where you can bend down over it.[12]
- If you like, you can add some essential oils to the bowl to help you relax. For instance, you might add 2-3 drops of lavender, tea tree, peppermint, or eucalyptus essential oil to the water.
- Put a towel over your head, then lean over the steam for 15 minutes. Set your timer for 15 minutes, then drape the towel over your head and lean forward. Be careful not to get too close to the water, as it could scald your face. Position the towel so that it encircles the bowl and traps in the steam. Keep your head over the steaming bowl for 15 minutes.[13]
- The steam will loosen the glue on your extensions so it comes off more easily.
- Soak a cotton swab in olive or coconut oil. Pour olive oil or coconut oil onto a cotton swab. Make sure that it's really saturated, as dry cotton may scratch or irritate the skin around your eyes.[14]
- If you're using coconut oil, you may need to microwave the oil for a few seconds to get it into a liquid state.
- You may need to use multiple cotton swabs to get off all of the lashes, so have extras on hand.
- Swipe the oil over your eyelashes until all of your extensions come off. Start at the inner corner of your eye and pull the cotton swab across your lashes. Make several passes to coat the extensions in the oil. Once the oil coats your lashes, the extensions should start to come off. Keep wiping until all of the eyelash extensions are removed.[15]
- If your skin starts to feel irritated, stop wiping immediately. Wash your face, then see a professional to get the remaining extensions removed.
- If necessary, apply more oil to your cotton swab or get a new swab.
- Don't simply pull off the extensions, as this can damage your natural lashes.
- If the extensions don't wipe away easily, comb the oil through them with a spoolie, then let it sit for a minute. Once it's had a chance to soak in, run the spoolie through your lashes again to comb out the extensions.
- Use a gentle cleanser to wash away the excess oil. After you've removed all of your extensions, apply a pea-size amount of mild facial cleanser to your skin. Work the cleanser over your face to remove any excess oil from your skin. Rinse your face with cool water, then pat it dry with a clean towel.[16]
- It's okay to use your normal facial cleanser to clean away the oil.
EditGetting a Professional Removal - Go back to the salon technician who applied your extensions. Eyelash extensions are most often affixed using surgical-grade glues, which are a type of superglue. This type of glue is extremely difficult to remove without the proper tools and chemical solutions, so it's best to return to your eyelash technician. Make an appointment with them to get your eyelashes removed.[17]
- If you've had your lashes for less than a week, then it's very important that you go back to your technician. It's very difficult to remove a full set of extensions that have only recently been applied.
- Go to a different salon if you're concerned about the application. While eyelash extensions are generally safe, sometimes people make mistakes, especially if they're a beginner or lack proper training. If you have any concerns about how your extensions were applied, go to a different salon to have them removed. For instance, you might want to see a different technician if you experienced any of the following:[18]
- Unprofessional, crooked, patchy, or unattractive eye lashes
- Pain around your eyes
- Itching or stinging around your eyes
- Eye redness
- See a doctor if you're experiencing pain, irritation, redness, or swelling. In some cases, eyelash extensions can cause an allergic reaction or lead to an infection. Similarly, improperly applied lashes may cause pain, irritation, and damage. If you're getting your lashes removed because they're bothering you, it's best to see a doctor so you can get proper treatment.[19]
- In rare cases, an infection can cause serious complications, so don't hesitate to see your doctor. You'll likely receive a referral to an ophthalmologist, who can make sure your eyes are okay.
- You can also try the oil removal process with baby oil or oil-based eye makeup remover. Make sure to work the oil into the lash line thoroughly before attempting to lift the lashes out.
- If either of the home removal treatments don't work for you, go to a professional to have the extensions removed.
- Do not pull eyelash extensions off. Your real lashes will come off with the fake lashes.
- Eyelash extensions can permanently damage your natural lashes if they're improperly applied or removed. It's best to work with a trained professional.[20]
- Eyelash extensions can result in pain or an infection, especially if your technician isn't properly trained. If you notice any pain, irritation, redness, swelling, or vision issues, visit your doctor immediately.[21]
EditReferences EditQuick Summary
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| How to Fix a Leaky Shower Faucet Posted: 03 Jun 2019 09:00 AM PDT A leaking shower faucet can be both annoying and costly, as it will likely lead to higher water bills. Fortunately, you can fix your leaky shower faucet yourself with a few tools and supplies. If you have a single-handle shower faucet, you'll need to replace the cartridge in your valve. For a 2-handle shower faucet, replace the washer in the handle on the side that's leaking. However, you may need to call a professional plumber if your DIY fix doesn't work. EditInstalling a New Cartridge in a Single-Handle Faucet - Turn off your water valve before beginning. Your water valve controls the flow of water to your shower. It may be located in your bathroom or your basement. In some cases, it's behind a panel near your shower. Once you locate the valve, turn the knob clockwise to turn off the water.[1]
- You may find the panel that houses your water valve in the room next to your bathroom. It may even be in a closet.
- Remove your shower handle using a screwdriver. The screw will be in the center of a knob handle or on the side of a curved handle. Choose a screwdriver that fits into the screw head. Then, carefully turn the screwdriver counter-clockwise to loosen it. Pull out the screw and set it aside to reuse when you replace the shower handle.[2]
- Your handle could have more than 1 screw, so make sure you remove all of them.
- If your handle won't come off, try heating it with a hair dryer. Set the heat to high, then blow the hot air onto your handle for 1 minute. Drape a towel over the handle to protect your hand from the heat. Then, try to pull off the handle.[3]
- Use your screwdriver to remove the faceplate. The faceplate is the metal piece that's behind your handle. Fit the screwdriver tip into the screws on the faceplate. Next, turn it counter-clockwise to loosen the screws. Set the screws aside for later, then carefully pull off the faceplate and set it aside.[4]
- The faceplate may stick to the tile or shower wall. If this happens, gently wiggle it until it comes free.
- Pull the metal sleeve off of the shower valve that's behind the faceplate. The shower valve looks like part of a metal pipe that connects to your shower handle. It will have a metal sleeve that covers the end of the valve. Use your hands to carefully remove this sleeve, then set it aside for later.[5]
- This sleeve is called an escutcheon. If you look for one at the hardware store, this is what you'll need to ask for.
- Use pliers to remove the locking clip if your valve has one. Look for the locking clip on the top of your valve. It will look like a metal rod, and the end should stick out of the top. If you see one, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully pull it out. Set it to the side so you can replace it when you're finished installing the new cartridge.[6]
- The locking clip should be visible on the top of the valve. They aren't present on all valves, so don't worry if you don't see one.
- You may need to use a screwdriver or awl to pry up the clip.[7]
- Fit a deep well socket wrench over the valve cartridge. The cartridge looks like a long cylinder with a metal rod sticking out of the top. Choose a deep well socket wrench that's the right size for your cartridge, then slide it over the cartridge inside the valve. Turn it counter-clockwise to make sure it grips the cartridge. If the socket is too loose, choose the next size down.[8]
- A deep well socket wrench is a wrench that has a long metal tube fitted onto the end so you can remove nuts or screws that are embedded inside a hole.
- If you don't have a deep well socket wrench, you can pick one up at your local hardware store or online. Most deep well socket wrenches come with a range of sockets in different sizes so you can find the 1 that fits your nut.
- You can also find tools that are called "cartridge pullers." These will also remove your cartridge. However, make sure you get the cartridge puller made for your brand of faucet.[9]
- The cartridge is the part of the valve that controls the flow and temperature of the water.
- Turn the wrench counterclockwise to remove the cartridge. Use the handle to slowly turn the wrench, which will loosen the cartridge. Keep turning until the cartridge feels like it's free.[10]
- The cartridge may come out in the deep well socket wrench. However, it's normal for it to remain in the valve after you pull out the wrench. That's okay because you can remove it by hand.
- Use your needle-nose pliers to pull out the cartridge. Latch onto the end of the cartridge using your needle-nose pliers. Then, carefully pull the cartridge from inside the valve.[11]
- If you don't have your replacement cartridge yet, take the old cartridge to your local hardware store to find a match. For an easy option, show it to an experienced store associate and let them find the match for you.[12]
- Install a new cartridge into the valve by turning it clockwise. Slide the new cartridge into the empty valve. Then, put your deep well socket wrench over the cartridge and turn it clockwise. Stop when the cartridge feels like it's tight.[13]
- Replace your valve sleeve, faceplate, and shower handle. Slide the valve sleeve (escutcheon) back over the valve, then put the faceplate back into place. Use your screwdriver to secure the faceplate against the shower wall. Finally, screw your shower handle back into place.[14]
- If your valve had a locking clip, don't forget to put it back on before you replace the valve sleeve.
- Turn your water valve back on and test your shower. Turn the knob on your water valve counter-clockwise so the water will come back on. Then, turn on the shower faucet to see if it works correctly. Finally, turn off the shower and make sure the leak is gone.
- If your shower is still leaking, you'll need to call a professional plumber to fix it.
EditReplacing the Washer in a 2-Handle Faucet - Switch off the water valve before you get started. The water valve controls the flow of water to your shower faucet, and it's often located in your bathroom or basement. You may find it behind a panel that's located on the other side of your shower. Turn the knob on your shower valve clockwise to shut off the water.[15]
- If you're having trouble finding your shower valve, look in the room next to your shower. You may find the panel there.
- Feel the water coming from the faucet to see if it's hot or cold. Put your hand under the leak to check the temperature of the water. If it's cold, then it's likely the cold faucet that's leaking. On the other hand, hot water means the hot side is likely leaking.[16]
- It's possible that both sides are leaking. If this is the case, you can replace the washer on the second side if the leak doesn't go away after you replace the first washer.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the shower handle on the leaky side. Look for the screw in the center of the shower handle. Fit your screwdriver into the screw that holds the shower handle in place. Then, turn your screwdriver counter-clockwise to loose the screw and remove it. Finally, set the screw and the handle aside for later.[17]
- Remove the metal faceplate that attaches to the shower wall. This is the metal piece that goes under the handle. Look inside the faceplate to see if it has threads, which it likely will. Gently unscrew the metal plate by turning it counter-clockwise. When it comes off, set it aside until you're ready to put it back on.[18]
- This is also called an escutcheon.
- Slide a deep well socket wrench over the metal stem and onto the nut. The nut will be located deep inside your wall, so you'll need a deep well socket wrench to reach it. Choose the size that looks right, then slide it over the metal stem. Secure the end of the wrench over the valve nut that's at the base of the stem.[19]
- A deep well socket wrench is a wrench with a long metal tube on the end. It allows you to reach nuts that are embedded inside a structure.
- You can find a deep well socket wrench at a local hardware store or online. They're often sold in sets so you can choose the right size socket for your needs.
- To make sure it's the right size, turn the wrench counter-clockwise to make sure it's gripping the nut.
- Unscrew the valve nut and set it aside. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise until the nut comes free. Then, remove the wrench and the nut from the valve. Set the nut aside so you can put it back on later.[20]
- Your nut should stick in the wrench when you pull it out.
- Pull the metal stem out of the wall and put it aside. The metal stem is the part of your faucet that the handle turns. Use your fingers to carefully remove the metal stem. It should slide out easily now that the nut isn't holding it in place. Set the metal stem to the side so you can reuse it.[21]
- Remove the old rubber washer and install a new rubber washer. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull the old rubber o-ring washer from around the valve. It should easily come off because it's just pressed onto the valve. Discard the old washer, then press a new rubber o-ring washer over the valve. Line it up in the exact place as the old one.[22]
- Make sure your replacement rubber washer is the same size as the 1 that's already there. This will ensure a proper fit.
- Coat the new washer in heat-proof faucet grease to improve the seal.
- Replace your metal stem, faceplate, and shower handle. Slide the metal stem back into place. Then, put the nut into your deep well socket wrench. Slide the wrench over the metal stem and replace the nut by turning it clockwise. Next, put the faceplate against the wall and turn it to secure it in place. Finally, screw the shower handle back onto the metal stem.[23]
- Turn on your water valve and test the faucet. Turn the knob on your water valve counter-clockwise so the water will come back on. Next, turn on your shower faucet to make sure that the water is running correctly. Finally, turn off the faucet and check that the leak is fixed.[24]
- If the leak isn't fixed, try replacing the washer on the other side. If this doesn't work, you'll need to call in a professional plumber.
EditThings You'll Need EditInstalling a New Cartridge in a Single-Handle Faucet - Gloves (optional)
- Screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Deep well socket wrench
- Cartridge pullers (optional)
- New cartridge
EditReplacing the Washer in a 2-Handle Faucet - Gloves (optional)
- Screwdriver
- Deep well socket wrench
- Needle-nose pliers
- New washer
- Heat-proof faucet grease
- New metal stem (optional)
- If you purchase a cartridge puller, be sure that it works with your brand of faucet. If you are unsure what brand you have, take the cartridge to the store with you and an experienced associate should know which products will work.
- If your shower is leaking behind the wall or your valve is damaged, you'll need to call in a professional plumber to repair or replace the valve.[25]
EditRelated wikiHows EditReferences EditQuick Summary
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| How to Strengthen Teeth Naturally Posted: 03 Jun 2019 01:00 AM PDT Strong teeth are essential for a healthy mouth! You can work on strengthening your teeth by getting the right vitamins and minerals in your diet. You can also protect your teeth through healthy habits. In addition, certain foods and habits can weaken your teeth so limit those as you work for a healthy smile. EditGetting the Right Nutrients - Ensure you're getting 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day. You probably know calcium helps keep your bones strong; the same is true for your teeth. Eating the recommended amount of calcium in your diet every day will help increase the strength of your teeth. Dairy products are a great source of calcium; however, you'll find other good sources, such as fortified cereal and leafy greens.[1]
- For instance, both of low-fat milk and a few cubes (about the size of 3 dice) of cheese have 305 milligrams of calcium.
- However, other foods have calcium, too: a serving of fortified cereal can have anywhere from 150 milligrams to over 1,000 milligrams so read the label.[2] Tofu with calcium sulfate added, as well as calcium-fortified milk substitutes are good choices. Canned fish with the bones, such as sardines or salmon, collard greens, bok choy, turnip greens, and kale are also good sources of calcium.[3]
- Aim for 800 IU (40 μg) of vitamin D a day. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium properly. Many milk products and cereals are fortified with it for this very reason. Being out in the sun is another way to get vitamin D, though you need to weigh the costs of sun exposure, which can damage your skin. However, if you're not getting enough, you may need to take a supplement.[4]
- Fish is a great source of vitamin D. A serving of fish that's about the size of a deck of cards can have anywhere from 4 μg to 18 μg. Sardines, rockfish, herring, halibut, and tuna are on the low end, in the 4-5 μg range. Fish like coho or sockeye salmon, mackerel, whitefish, and sturgeon are about 10-11 μg, while smoked sturgeon, smoked chinook salmon, trout, swordfish, and canned sockeye salmon are on the high end of that range.[5]
- Eat phosphorus-rich foods to get 1,000 milligrams per day. Like calcium, phosphorus is essential to bone and teeth health. Most dairy foods are high in phosphorus, as well as many fortified foods, so if you're getting your calcium from these foods, you're likely getting enough phosphorus, too. Also, many protein-rich foods, such as meat and eggs, are high in phosphorus.[6]
- Phosphorus is used as an additive in many processed foods, mainly as a preservative. In fact, sodas are high in phosphoric acid. That doesn't mean you should increase your intake of processed foods; however, if you are eating these foods, you're likely getting enough phosphorus in your diet.
- Toddlers should get 460 milligrams, 4-8 year-olds should get 500 milligrams, and 9-18-year-olds should get 1,250 milligrams a day.[7]
- Eat a balanced diet for teeth and mouth health. Aim to eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables in your weekly diet; try selecting a variety of colors when choosing your produce, as that ensures you'll be getting a wide variety of vitamins. Fill your plate up halfway with fruits and veggies at every meal, then opt for a lean protein and whole grains for the rest of your plate, along with a serving of low-fat dairy.[8]
- While focusing on nutrients like calcium and vitamin D are great for dental wellness, a healthy diet overall is also essential. Getting a wide variety of vitamins and minerals will help support your strong teeth.
EditPracticing Healthy Habits - Brush your teeth twice a day to remove bacteria. To brush well, hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your teeth. Use soft, gentle strokes to brush all the surfaces of your teeth and aim to brush for at least 2 minutes. Set a timer to help you brush longer![9]
- Remember to replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every 3-4 months.
- Floss once a day to get food from in between your teeth. Pull out about of floss. Wrap around your middle finger on one hand. Leave loose between your hands, then wrap the rest around the middle finger on your other hand. Gently press the floss between your teeth, taking care not to ram it into your gums. Make a "C" around each side of the tooth and move the floss up and down to help clear food.[10]
- As the dental floss gets dirty, move clean thread into the middle by taking some off the finger holding most of it and wrapping the extra around the other finger.
- Visit your dentist at least once a year for x-rays and cleaning. These visits help detect problems before they begin. Plus, if you start to get a buildup of plaque, which can weaken teeth, the dentist can remove it for you so you can start fresh.[11]
- If you have dental problems, you may need to visit more often.
- Increase saliva production by chewing sugarless gum and drinking more water. Dry mouth can increase your chances of tooth decay, and it can be a side effect of many medications. To help your body produce more saliva, try chewing on sugarless gum throughout the day or even sucking on sugarless candy.[12]
- Sipping water can help combat dry mouth. To increase the benefit, don't swallow immediately; instead, hold it in your mouth for a few moments first.
- Opt for fruits and veggies high in fiber to clean your teeth. These foods naturally clean your teeth, helping to keep them strong. Plus, they increase saliva production, which in turn will help reduce the bacteria in your mouth and protect your teeth.[13]
- Try produce like carrots, leafy greens, apples, and celery.
- Saliva has small amounts of calcium and phosphate in it, which helps restore the minerals in your enamel.
- Enjoy green and black teas to reduce bacteria in your mouth. These teas contain polyphenols, which help to reduce bacteria in your mouth. Try drinking tea with your meal or shortly after to help protect your teeth.[14]
- Keep in mind, though, that teas can stain your teeth over time.
- Consider oil pulling to reduce bacteria in the mouth. Oil pulling is a traditional Indian technique that some people experience good results with. To practice this method, simply put 1-2 spoonfuls of oil in your mouth (enough to swish around) and move it around in your mouth for 5-20 minutes. When you're done, spit the oil out in a trashcan and rinse your mouth out. Then, you can brush your teeth like you normally would.[15]
- Typically, you do this in the early morning before you eat.
- While moving the oil around, try to swish it between your teeth.
- You can use sesame oil, olive oil, coconut oil, or sunflower oil, just to name a few.
EditAvoiding Destructive Foods and Habits - Rinse after eating soft, starchy foods. Soft breads, potato chips, and even crackers can wedge food particles in your teeth, leading to increased bacteria and tooth decay. Try to avoid these foods when you can. When you can't, try swishing your mouth with water after eating them to clear out the food.[16]
- You can also try eating sugarless gum.
- Choose chocolate and other short-lived candies over hard candies. Avoid sugary candies that you hold in your mouth a long time like lollipops, hard candies, and caramels. Because the sugar stays in your mouth so long, it promotes bacteria growth and tooth decay. If you need something sweet, pick something that will wash away more quickly, such as chocolate.[17]
- Reach for dark chocolate, which has less sugar and may have other health benefits.
- Also, go for sugary foods when you're already eating a meal, as the extra saliva will help clear out the sugar.
- Slow down your alcohol intake. Alcohol can dry out your mouth, which can lead to tooth decay. Try limiting your intake of alcohol or skipping it altogether to help avoid this issue.[18]
- Quit smoking to protect your teeth. You likely are aware that smoking causes lung cancer and a whole host of other health problems. In addition, it can also weaken bone tissue, including your teeth.[19] Plus, smoking can cause oral cavities and oral cancers that lead to teeth decay.[20] If you've been thinking about quitting, now may be the time.
- Consider joining a quitter's group to help you learn how to deal with triggers and cravings.
- Discuss nicotine patches and gums with your doctor to help you quit.
- Get your friends and family to help you out by letting them know you are trying to quit.
- Opt for water over sugary sodas. The sugar in soda is bad for your teeth, but it goes beyond that. The acids can break down your enamel over time, leading to decay. Avoid sodas when you can and opt for water instead.[21]
- If you really need a soda, try using a straw, which cuts down on the soda's contact with your teeth.
EditReferences
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