Sometimes it is necessary to undergo vital dental work in order that we can have a clean, healthy and cavity free mouth. The aim then is to maintain a good level of oral health. With 42% of adults surveyed recently admitted their teeth would be the one thing they changed about themselves, oral health should be one of our key priorities.
Here are some tips on keeping your oral health tip top!
BRUSH, FLOSS, SWILL, REPEAT!
The obvious tip is to ensure you are brushing your teeth properly, twice a day – I know this seems pretty bog standard but according to recent surveys 47% of adults admit they aren’t brushing their teeth properly. Some only brush the front of their teeth, the places you can see. Teeth should be brushed front, back, sides and each tooth should be cleaned carefully, using circular motions. Generally we should be spending around 2/3 minutes brushing to remove plaque from our teeth before it hardens. Don’t forget to brush your tongue too as a lot of plaque resides there!
It’s important NOT to rinse with water too as vital fluoride is lost
After a meal flossing is also very important as most gum disease can begin with food that is stuck in between the teeth and isn’t removed by brushing. Flossing is much easier now as there are flossing picks and interdental brushes available which are better for getting into those nooks and crannies.
KEEP YOUR DENTIST ON SPEED DIAL!
Even if you are doing everything right it’s important to visit your dentist and/or hygienist regularly to make sure that everything is in good order and to have a thorough clean. The dentist or hygienist can spot a problem before it becomes something serious so it’s always good to allow them to do their job – looking after you!
KEEP IT FRESH!
Snacking on currents and raisins may seem like a healthy option but dried fruit plays havoc with your teeth! The natural sugar content is high in fruit but in dried fruits the sugar has become concentrated, they are also incredibly sticky and cling onto your teeth. Fruit with high water content such as apples and pears are your best bet as they increase saliva which protects your teeth and sugars are usually washed away.
FILL UP ON FLUORIDE
Read the label on your toothpaste! You will be surprised how some toothpastes scrimp of fluoride levels which isn’t good. Ensure you have at least 1450 level of fluoride in your toothpaste. If you or your child has weak teeth then ask your dentist about special toothpastes with higher levels of fluoride.
EVICT ACID!
Acids in sugary foods and drinks or citric acids in fruits are dangerous for your teeth, so the best thing to do is flush them away after a meal. This can be done by drinking regular glasses of water or chewing sugar free gum in order to raise saliva levels in the mouth.
Should you be worried about your oral health or have any advice please talk to your dentist, we are always here to help.
If you are due a check-up or have any problems then call our team 01248 787878 and get yourself booked in – it’s never too late to get help with oral health.
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