Practising good oral hygiene isn’t just important to keep your breath fresh and your teeth white; it’s also essential for your oral health (which in turn affects your general health). Looking after your teeth daily can prevent issues like decay and gum disease, and often, we might think we’re doing a better job of caring for our mouths than we really are.
It’s important to ensure we’re brushing and flossing thoroughly, and that we’re not consuming too much food and drink that can harm the teeth. In this guide, we’ve covered some of the essentials of oral care, so your natural teeth can last longer and look beautiful.
Too many people skip this step, but it’s an important habit to get into. It helps to dislodge food that gets stuck between your teeth, but also reduces plaque and bacteria around the mouth. We recommend flossing or using another type of interdental cleaner once a day. If you’re unsure about whether you’re flossing properly, this guide should help:
Even if you’re already brushing your teeth twice a day, are you doing it thoroughly enough? We recommend changing your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or when the bristles get worn, and consider using an electric toothbrush.
Follow these steps to ensure you’re brushing properly every time:
Consuming too much sugary food can lead to tooth decay. That’s because bacteria in the mouth breaks down sugar which produces acid, which can then attack the teeth. While natural sugars such as those in fruit and milk also contribute to tooth decay, processed sugar has a harsher effect, and you should only eat the following foods in moderation:
You should visit the dentist every six months as a standard guide. Of course, everyone is different, and your dentist may recommend a more regular schedule in certain cases. This bi-annual visit is important so your dentist can examine your mouth and look out for any potential issues – so don’t skip it if you think your mouth is fine.
Additionally, visit the dentist if you’re experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, a loose tooth, a cracked or chipped tooth, or swelling.
If you have any other questions about maintaining your oral health, contact our clinic on (02) 9887 1961 or info@marsfielddentalcare.com.au.
"The information in this website may be simplified in nature and does not replace professional advice. Risks and consequences may apply to any treatment. Always seek a second opinion when considering complex treatment. A referral to a specialist may be required in certain situations. Quotations can only be given after proper clinical assessment and so pricing details cannot be given over the phone."
