oral healthcare tips

Brush effectively for at least 2 minutes with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day, concentrating on the gum line with a gentle 'massage' action.  Try not to rinse your mouth out with water after brushing so that the fluoride is left on the tooth surfaces.  Remember to change your toothbrush every 3 months.  Also brush your tongue to prevent bad breath.

Tooth brushing alone cannot clean in between the teeth so use an appropriate aid, such as floss or inter-dental brushes to achieve this.  If your gums tend to bleed easily when cleaning them, try to continue as this is a sign of gum disease which can only be prevented with good plaque removal.  Doing this also prevents bad breath.

Limit sugary snacks and drinks to meal times.  If necessary use a sugar alternative (artificial sweetener) in hot drinks, or cut out the sugar altogether.  A fluoride mouth rinse at a separate time to brushing can help strengthen teeth against decay.

Keep regular 6 monthly checks with the dentist and prevantative care appointments as advised with the hygienist.  Even if you wear dentures it is important to check the mouth for early signs of oral cancer.

If dentures are worn try to leave out at night to relieve the gums.  Brush the denture outside of the mouth and the remaining teeth twice a day.

If you smoke try to stop to reduce the risks of oral cancer and associated gum problems.  Your dental professional can give you further advice to help. Smoking is a major cause of tooth loss through gum disease.

Up to the age of 6 brush the gum line and teeth for 2 minutes, twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste designed for children - always read the packaging for the relevant fluoride levels for the appropriate age group.  Let the child also brush their own teeth before or afterwards to familiarise with the tooth brushing technique.  Only use a pea size amount (a smear for babies when their first teeth erupt).  Encourage the child to spit and not rinse the fluoride paste away, to strengthen the enamel.  After the age of 6 it is advised to supervise brushing until approximately age 10.

Limit sugary snacks and drinks to meal times.

Visit the dentist every 6 months from 6 months old to familiarise them and discourage dental problems.