Top 10 tips for clean teeth
From Dr. Mervyn Druian 2007
1. Floss at least once a day before brushing. As the saying goes ‘only floss the teeth you want to keep’.
2. Always maintain good dental care and brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes.
3. Change your tooth brush every six weeks. Worn bristles can cause damage to your teeth and gums, they become less effective and old toothbrushes make great homes for bacteria.
4. Use a toothpaste with fluoride it makes the tooth more resistant to decay.
5. Drink lots of water.
6. Swap sugary snacks for fruit and vegetables.
7. Use a mouth rinse to help reduce plaque.
8. Make and keep regular appointments with your dentist and hygienist. Not only is it vital for your teeth that you regularly visit a dentist, but also your health as the dentist can spot many potential oral health problems such as oral cancer.
9. Chew sugar free gum to increase saliva as it helps neutralise plaque acids.
10. As well as flossing and brushing your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day you should also learn how to brush your teeth properly. This includes:
a. Using round circular movements.
b. Start with the lower jaw and work your way around the other teeth, including the back of the molars, then repeat for the inner area of the teeth.
c. Brush the biting surfaces of teeth with a straight-across movement.
d. Use a soft filament brush so you don’t harm your gums.