Oral Hygiene

Don’t sleep without brushing your teeth

Your Canley Heights dentist recommends brushing at least twice a day. Still, many of us fail to brush our teeth before sleeping. But brushing your teeth before sleeping gets rid of the germs and plaque that accumulate during the day.

Brush your teeth properly

How you brush your teeth is as important as how often you do. Poor brushing technique is almost as bad as not brushing at all.

Take your time, move your toothbrush in gentle, circular motions to remove plaque build-up. Over time, unremoved plaque can harden, resulting in calculus build-up and gingivitis.

Don’t forget to brush your tongue

Plaque can also grow on your tongue, resulting in bad mouth odour and other oral health problems. Don’t forget to brush your tongue every time you brush your teeth.

Use a fluoride toothpaste

In toothpastes, there are more important factors to look for than whitening and flavours. Regardless of what variant you choose, make sure to choose one that contains fluoride.

Fluoride is the teeth’s main defence against cavities. Fluoride fights bacteria that can lead to tooth decay, as well as providing a protective barrier for your teeth.

Treat flossing as equally important as brushing

Many of those who brush regularly avoid flossing. Flossing stimulates the gums, reduces plaque build-up, and helps lower inflammation in the area.

Flossing once daily is enough to reap these benefits.

Don’t let flossing stop you

Flossing can be a bit challenging for young children and older adults with arthritis.

Rather than avoiding it, look for tools that can help you floss your teeth easily. Ready-to-use flossers available in drugstores can also make a difference.

Consider mouthwash

Many people skip mouthwashing just because they don’t know how this works.

Mouthwashing helps in three ways: Reducing the amount of acid in the mouth, cleaning hard-to-brush areas in and around the gums, and re-mineralising the teeth.

Drink plenty of water

Water is still the best drink for your overall health — including your oral health. It is recommended to drink water after each meal. This can help in washing away the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages.

Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables

Ready-to-eat foods may be convenient, but perhaps not so much when it comes to your teeth. Fresh, crunchy fruits and vegetables not only contain healthier fibre but are also best for your teeth.

Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages

Sugar converts into acid, which can erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids lead to tooth decay.

Acidic drinks, such as fruit juices, teas, and coffee, can also wear down your teeth enamel. While you don’t necessarily have to avoid them altogether, it doesn’t hurt to be careful.

See your Canley Heights dentist at least two times a year

Your daily routine is essential to your overall oral health. Still, even the most dedicated brushers and flossers need to see a dentist for cleanings and check-ups at least twice a year.

Not only can your dentist remove calculus and detect cavities, but also spot potential problems and offer customised treatment solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions