Welcome to Dental Health Week for 2024! This is the perfect time to revisit some essential oral health routines that can help keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy.
Whether you’ve already committed to a dental routine, or just starting – these tips are for everyone. Let’s dive into the basics that everyone should follow for optimal oral health.
1. Brush twice daily, for 2 minutes
Brushing your teeth twice a day is crucial. Make sure you’re brushing for a full two minutes each time to effectively remove plaque and food particles.
Use a fluoridated toothpaste, and brush all surfaces of your teeth (as well as your tongue!).
Use soft bristles if you use a manual toothbrush. Or invest in a good electric toothbrush that has a pressure sensor to tell you if you’re brushing too hard!
There are some very expensive toothbrushes on the market, but trust us when we say you don’t have to spend too much money for it to do the job.
This Oral B toothbrush you can grab sometimes at 60% off, especially around big calendar events like Fathers Day and Christmas.
2. Remember to Floss Daily
Skipping flossing is like only washing the outside of your kitchen dishes. Sure, they might look clean, but there’s still gunk hiding in the corners.
It would be awesome if our toothbrushes could clean in between our teeth, but the sad reality is – they don’t.
Flossing daily is just as important as brushing. Regular flossing can help prevent gum disease & decay, and in turn, you can save yourself more trips to the dentist!
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is essential for your overall health, including your dental health. In Australia, it’s recommended to drink 2-3 Litres of water every day.
Water helps to wash away food particles and bacteria, keeps your mouth moist, and supports saliva production – which is crucial for protecting your teeth.
Depending on where you are in Australia, most town water supplies are fluoridated. (Yay!)
Fluoride has been scientifically proven to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay, giving you another reason to drink up!
4. Stick to Main Meals Rather Than Snacking
Frequent snacking can increase your risk of decay, because it exposes your teeth to sugars and acids throughout the day.
Each time you eat, it takes about
30 minutes for your mouth to remineralise and neutralise the acids produced by the bacteria. If you constantly snack, your teeth are under almost continuous acid attacks, which can lead very quickly to decay.
Try to stick to main meals and limit your snacking. If you do snack, choose healthier options like fruits & vegetables, and rinse your mouth with water afterwards, to help speed up the remineralisation process.
5. Change Your Toothbrush (or Head) Every 3 Months
Toothbrushes can harbour a surprising amount of bacteria, especially if they’re not replaced regularly. In fact, research has shown that thousands of bacteria, including those that cause gum disease and decay, can live on your toothbrush.
When you’re sick, even more germs can accumulate on your toothbrush, potentially prolonging your illness or spreading it to others if stored close together.
The current recommendation is to replace your toothbrush or the head of your electric toothbrush every 3 months – or sooner, if the bristles become frayed or after you’ve been unwell – to ensure you’re getting the best clean and minimising the risk of reintroducing harmful bacteria into your mouth.
If the bristles become frayed or worn before 3 months, consider asking yourself if you are brushing too vigorously – you should be using soft, gentle pressure.
6. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods
Sugary and acidic foods can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. Try to limit your intake of sweets, soft drinks, and citrus fruits.
If you do consume these, rinse your mouth with water afterwards, and
wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to avoid damaging your enamel.
7. Visit Your Dentist Every 6 Months
Regular dental check-ups are so important for maintaining your oral health. Dentists and Oral Health Therapists can detect early signs of problems like decay, gum disease & oral cancer – and provide treatment before they become more serious (and costly). Aim to visit your dentist every 6 months for a thorough examination and clean.
By incorporating these simple yet effective habits into your daily routine, you can significantly improve your dental health and maintain a beautiful, affordable smile.
If you have any questions, or need personalised advice, feel free to reach out to us at
Floss Family Dental Wellington Point & Victoria Point. We’re always here to help you achieve and maintain excellent oral health.
Happy Dental Health Week!
