What are the best ways to ensure good oral health?  What does the ideal tooth care regimen look like?  What could you be doing better to keep your smile looking great?  We break it down for you…

Starting the new year with lots of good intentions and resolutions is one of the joys and torments of the season.  How many of your new year resolutions relate to your teeth?

At this time of year, we do hear regularly from people who have decided that this year is the year they get the smile they’ve always wanted.  Today’s brace systems make this easier than ever, of course, but how about some more mundane oral care resolutions?

With the BBC reporting earlier this month that record numbers of children are suffering from poor dental health, it can’t hurt to return to the basics and consider what a daily oral care regimen should include.

Brush Your Teeth

You need to brush your teeth twice a day.  Once after breakfast and once last thing at night, before going to bed.

At Least Two Minutes

Each brushing should last at least two minutes.  Ensure that you work your way around your whole mouth.  If you think you, or, especially your kids, aren’t brushing for long enough, invest in a tooth brushing timer or use a tooth brushing app.

Choose a Toothpaste with Fluoride

Your dentist can advise a suitable toothpaste for you.  Some areas add fluoride to the water and other areas don’t, so where you live can alter the advice you receive from your dentist about the ideal fluoride ratio.

Don’t Rinse!

After brushing, don’t be tempted to rinse your mouth with water as this will wash away some of the benefits you’re receiving from the fluoride in your toothpaste.

Daily Floss

Toothbrushes can’t get everywhere, so before at least one of your daily brushes use an inter-dental brush or dental floss to get into all those hard-to-reach places and ensure a super-clean mouth.

Mouthwash

It’s good to use a mouthwash daily, but this shouldn’t happen immediately after brushing.  Mouthwash you also wash away some of the benefits of the fluoride in your toothpaste.  Choose instead to use a mouthwash after snacking.

Change your toothbrush regularly

Your brush needs replacing regularly.  As soon as the bristles start to look tired or splayed, replace the brush.  If you’re worried about all the plastic going to landfill, then opt for a bamboo brush instead.

Get regular check-ups with your dentist

For children, a check-up every three months is a good idea.  For adults, unless you are undergoing treatment, you should schedule a check-up with your dentist every six months.

Visit the Hygienist when necessary

Your dentist will recommend if and when you need to visit the hygienist – although if you have concerns between check-ups, you can always schedule a visit to the hygienist (or an additional check-up with the dentist) when you think it is necessary.

If you follow these simple steps, you should be well on your way to great dental health.  However, if you do have any concerns about your dental health, or would like personal advice from our dental team, please book an appointment with us.