Caring For Your Teeth

Caring For Your Teeth

Keeping your teeth in the best condition possible requires regular dental care, which includes a six monthly exam, scale and clean, x-rays (when needed) and a fluoride application.

A regular brushing and flossing routine between visits is your best defence against tooth decay and gum disease. We are happy to offer you advice on personal oral hygiene and healthy eating to help you keep your smile happy and healthy between visits.

Tools, time & techniques

Caring for your teeth involves the 3 T’s; time, techniques and tools. All three work in tandem together to keep your teeth in tip top condition.

Tools – first up, you need to have access to the right tools. A soft brush toothbrush with a small head, along with a full fluoride toothpaste are the best tools available. An electric toothbrush does remove more plaque, but a regular toothbrush is very effective if used correctly.

Replacing your toothbrush every three months or earlier if the bristles are showing signs of wear is also recommended. Dental floss is also an important tool to have, as a toothbrush is unable to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.

Time – caring correctly for your teeth does not take a lot of time, around two minutes twice a day. Using a timer or a stopwatch can help ensure your teeth receive the attention they deserve.

Techniques – using the right technique to care for your teeth is as important as using the right tools and spending enough time doing so.

• Place toothbrush at 45 degree angle to your gum and use a gentle circular motion at the gum line
• Brush outside and inside surfaces of all lower teeth
• Brush outside and inside surfaces of all upper teeth
• For the chewing surfaces, use a firm back and forth motion
• Remember, don’t apply pressure and let your toothbrush do the work!

Why is tooth care important?

Over our lifetime, we will receive two sets of teeth – our baby set and our adult set. While our baby set will be naturally replaced, our adult teeth are meant to last for the remainder of our lives. It is only through caring for our oral health correctly that we can prevent irreversible damage.

Dental decay is caused by plaque build-up on the protective enamel coating of your teeth. The plaque has bacteria within it which produces acid. It is the acid which then breaks through the protective enamel coating, causing cavities.

Plaque is also present in and around our gum line, which can lead to gum disease. Gum disease can range from sore gums and bleeding through to tooth loss. Stains and bad breath are also common signs your teeth are not receiving enough care.

Top tips on caring for your teeth

Being able to share your beautiful healthy smile with the world does wonders for your self-confidence. To have great oral health, follow these seven easy steps:

1. Brush your teeth twice a day
2. Floss between your teeth once a day at least
3. Reduce consumption of fizzy drinks and other acidic beverages, along with sugary foods
4. Use a mouthwash every day
5. Quit smoking
6. Have regular check-ups as recommended by your dentist
7. Clean your tongue with a tongue cleaner to reduce bacteria and bad breath

Our experienced dental team are here to help you keep your teeth looking great and working fine. Book your appointment with us today!