Give your teeth the care they deserve with these simple tips

Looking after your teeth is important at an age, and especially when they’ve done a lifetime’s work for you.

But many people don’t spend long enough cleaning their teeth, scrub too hard, or forgo flossing because they find it painful or a hassle.

Here are some tips to help make sure your teeth last as long as you do.

Brushing

Brush for at least two minutes in the morning and again at night, using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head and flexible neck. This style of brush is the most effective in removing plaque and debris from your teeth without causing damage to them or your gums.

Start at the back, brushing gently in a circular motion with the brush held at a roughly 45-degree angle to your gums. Ensure you carefully brush the inner and outer areas of your teeth, including all chewing surfaces. Tilt the toothbrush vertically to reach the inner front areas of your teeth.

Don’t scrub too hard because this can damage your tooth enamel and gums. Worn out bristles on your toothbrush after fewer than three months of use is a sign you are brushing too hard.

Don’t brush side-to -side along your gums because this can cause your cause gums to recede and damage your tooth enamel.

Brushing your tongue helps to reduce bacteria and keep breath fresh. Put the bristles of your toothbrush on your tongue and gently scrape forward. Don’t forget the sides of your tongue – just make sure you go gently!

If you have trouble estimating your two-minute brushing time, use an egg timer or play a song on your radio or phone – most run for two or three minutes.

Don’t rinse after brushing. Leaving toothpaste on your teeth gives ongoing protection.

If you have limited dexterity, consider using a powered toothbrush because it will do most of the work for you. All you need to do is pause for a few seconds on each tooth so the brush can clean it.

Replace your brush every three months, or if the bristles are spreading apart. You should also replace it if you have had a cold, to prevent reinfection from germs in the bristles.

Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth, so choose a toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Diet

Limit sugary treats to meal times. Don’t forget that many foods have hidden sugars, including ‘healthy’ snacks such as dried fruit.

Drink lots of water. Fluoridated tap water is best, and as a bonus, it’s calorie-free.

Chew sugar-free gum after eating. This helps your mouth to produce more saliva, which can neutralise the decay-causing acid that damages your teeth.

Don’t rush straight to brush after eating. If you brush immediately after you have food acid in your mouth, it can be too abrasive for your teeth. Wait for 15-20 minutes, or rinse your mouth with water before brushing.

Flossing

Brushing doesn’t get to every surface of your teeth, which is why flossing is also important.

Flossing helps to remove plaque as well as working to prevent gum disease and bad breath.

If you can’t use standard dental floss held between your fingers, try a floss threader or a floss pick.

Gently guide the floss between your teeth but make sure you don’t damage to your gums by pushing it too deeply toward them. Use a side-to-side motion to clean.

Dental work

If you have a bridge or an implant, there are additional precautions you should take.

Flossing is even important to prevent damage to the artificial product in your mouth, so use interdental cleaners or a floss threader.

If you have dentures, it’s important to use good-quality cleaning products, such as those made by Polident.

After removing your dentures, soak them in a cleaning product for the recommended time, then scrub thoroughly with a soft-bristled denture brush.

Due to their acrylic make up, dentures can distort or warp if left out to dry. Soak them in a warm glass of water or leftover cleaning solution when you’re not wearing them to ensure they maintain their shape.

If you’re unsure how to follow any of these suggested methods for tooth, denture and gum care, ask your dentist for advice.

What do you do to keep your teeth healthy?

Source: Australian Dental Association, webmd.com