Top tips for:
- Clean your teeth twice daily. Brush the gum line and each individual tooth last thing at night so that the final step is using fluoridated toothpaste, and brush one other time during the day. After brushing, spit and DO NOT rinse to maintain fluoride levels that help strengthen tooth enamel.
- When choosing a toothpaste, use one that contains fluoride. It is recommended that children aged 0-6 use a toothpaste with 1000 ppm fluoride, and children aged 7 and adults use toothpaste with 1350-1500 ppm fluoride.
- Once a day, before brushing, use dental floss/tape or inter-dental brushes to clean between your teeth. For narrow spaces, use dental floss or tape; for wider gaps, use inter-dental or single-tufted brushes. (If you have orthodontic appliances or bridges, use the kit suggested by your dental professional.)
- Good eating habits promote healthy gums. Choose foods rich in calcium, folic acid, vitamins, and minerals, and opt for sugar-free options when possible.
- Avoid dry mouth, as insufficient saliva means food debris and bacteria aren’t washed away from your teeth, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production. If dry mouth is frequent, please consult your GP.
- If you smoke cigarettes, cigars, use shisha pipes, or chew paan, you are at higher risk of gum disease. These habits reduce saliva flow and increase the risk of oral cancer. Consult your GP about quitting.
- Over time, alcohol can damage your teeth and gums by increasing the risk of tooth decay, erosion, and oral cancer. Reduce your alcohol intake.
- Visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings. Your dentist can detect early signs of gum disease and advise you on improving your oral health.
TIP: Do you have bad breath?
Lick your wrist, let it dry, and smell it; if it smells, your breath probably does too.