Good oral health is important for numerous reasons and the good news is that it’s actually really simple to take care of your teeth and reduce your risk of dental diseases.
Why not make it your resolution to look after those pearly whites and keep decay and gum disease at bay?
Here are 6 simple ways to take care of your oral health this year:
Brush: this sounds obvious, but many people fail to capitalise on the efficacy of brushing. When you brush, make sure you do a thorough job. Cover every tooth, spend at least 2 minutes brushing and don’t brush too hard; this can damage your enamel, so go steady.
Use fluoride toothpaste: fluoride is a mineral, which can have major benefits for your oral health, as it helps to strengthen and protect your enamel. The enamel is the tooth’s first line of defence and it’s important to preserve it as best you can. We recommend using fluoride toothpaste when you brush; for children, the recommended levels of fluoride are lower, so try to stick to children’s toothpaste.
Floss: Flossing is important because it cleans areas of your mouth, which you can’t access easily with a brush, such as the tiny gaps between the teeth. We recommend flossing on a daily basis; our dental hygienists and dentists will be happy to help with the flossing technique and answer any questions you have about oral hygiene.
Keep up with dental checks: dental check-ups are essential for good oral health, so make sure you keep up with your appointments. Checks enable us to look out for signs of decay, gum disease and oral cancer and give us the opportunity to treat any problems as early as possible.
Keep an eye on your mouth: it’s important to keep tabs on your oral health and to see your dentist if you notice any changes or abnormalities, such as bleeding when you brush or increased sensitivity.
Make healthy food choices: diet has strong links with oral health and making healthy food choices will have a really positive effect on your oral health. Try to avoid foods and drinks that are rich in sugar and acidic products and always wait 45-60 minutes after eating to brush your teeth.