Keeping your mouth healthy is very important. By looking after your teeth and gums you can avoid decay and gum disease.
What is tooth decay?
When you eat or drink something sugary, the bacteria in your mouth produce acid and this acid can make holes in your teeth.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease is caused by bacteria that stick to your teeth when you do not clean them properly. Dentists call this layer of bacteria PLAQUE. If you leave plaque on your teeth, your gums will become red, swollen, sore, and may bleed when you brush. You may also have bad breath. If gum disease is not treated the teeth may become loose and could eventually fall out.
How should I keep my mouth healthy?
Keep your teeth and gums clean. Good brushing is very important.
How should I brush my teeth and gums?
- Brush your teeth for 3 minutes in the morning and 3 minutes at bedtime.
- Use fluoride toothpaste.
- Choose a toothbrush with a small head to help reach every part of your mouth.
- Brush every surface of every tooth
- Ensure the bristles reach the area where the tooth meets the gum. This is where plaque collects.
- Move the toothbrush in small gentle circular movements.
- Use dental floss or inter-dental brushes to clean in between your teeth.
- Use disclosing tablets. These contain a harmless dye to stain plaque making it easier to see and remove.
- At bedtime use a daily fluoride rinse
Is an electric toothbrush better?
Using an electric toothbrush can be best, but it will only work well if used properly. Please ask a member of the team for more information about which toothbrush to buy and/or how to use it effectively.
Why should I avoid sugary foods and drinks between meals?
- Every time you eat or drink something sugary, the bacteria in your mouth will produce acid. Acid attacks can last for up to an hour after eating and drinking. The more often you eat or drink something sugary, the more likely you are to cause tooth decay.
- Cut down the number of times you have sugary foods or drinks by keeping these to mealtimes. Avoid sugary snacks like cakes, sweets, and biscuits between meals. Avoid sugary drinks like fruit squashes, natural fruit juices, and milkshakes between meals.
Why are fizzy and acidic drinks bad for my teeth?
Fruit juices, sports drinks, and fizzy drinks (even sugar-free ones) contain acids. These acids can dissolve the outer surface of the teeth (enamel). This is called erosion. The teeth become thinner and are more likely to chip. They may also become sensitive. The more often you drink fizzy or acidic drinks, the more likely you are to damage your teeth. So, cut down on fizzy and acidic drinks.
What about acidic foods?
Fruit such as oranges and lemons also contain acids, which can dissolve your teeth if you eat a large amount every day.
What can I drink between meals?
Plain still water and milk are best for your teeth.
What can I eat between meals?
Sugar-free or low sugar foods are best. Suggestions include bread, cheese sandwiches, vegetables, nuts or fruit.
Can smoking affect my teeth and gums?
Yes, smoking causes staining, bad breath, gum disease, tooth loss, and mouth cancer.
Bonus Tips!
- Brush your teeth for 2 minutes at least twice each day
- Use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.
- Replace your toothbrush regularly
- Use interdental aids to clean between your teeth
- Eat a balanced, healthy diet.
- Avoid sugary foods and drinks.
- Visit your general dentist/hygienist regularly.