Dental Care Tips

Brushing your teeth the right way is the key to good dental health:

• Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums
• Use gentle circular motions
• Brush every surface - outer, inner, and chewing surfaces
• Don't forget to brush your tongue for fresher breath
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months

Brushing alone isn't enough to clean between your teeth:

• Floss once a day
• Clean the gaps between every tooth
• Move the floss gently up and down
• Avoid snapping the floss against your gums
• Alternative: Use a water flosser

What you eat affects your dental health:

• Limit sugary foods and drinks
• Eat fresh fruits and vegetables
• Get calcium from milk and cheese
• Drink plenty of plain water
• Avoid starchy snacks between meals

Acidic drinks can damage your tooth enamel:

• Limit carbonated and fizzy drinks
• Cut back on acidic fruit juices
• Use a straw to reduce contact with your teeth
• Rinse with water after drinking acidic beverages
• Wait 30 minutes before brushing your teeth

Smoking causes a number of dental problems:

• Teeth become yellow and discoloured
• Increases the risk of gum disease
• Causes bad breath
• Slows healing after treatment
• Increases the risk of oral cancer

Regular visits to the dentist are essential:

• See your dentist every 6 months
• Get scaling done to remove tartar
• Catch dental problems early
• Get proper care advice
• Early treatment is cheaper and easier

Teach good habits from a young age:

• Start brushing as soon as the first tooth appears
• Use an age-appropriate fluoride toothpaste
• Supervise your child's brushing until age 7
• Limit sweets and sugary drinks
• Take your child to the dentist from age 1

See a dentist right away if you experience:

• Persistent toothache
• Bleeding gums when brushing
• Swollen or red gums
• Teeth sensitive to hot or cold
• Bad breath that won't go away