Dental services are advancing all the time and there are now a myriad of treatments on offer to help ensure people can benefit from attractive and healthy teeth and gums. For example, individuals can have whitening treatments, braces to straighten their teeth, veneers to transform their look and so on.
However, it is also vital that people look after their teeth and gums on an everyday basis. By following some basic principles, individuals can minimise the risk that they will suffer cavities, abscesses, gum disease and other problems.
Brushing
No dental routine is complete without thorough brushing. Teeth should be brushed twice a day for at least two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. This will help to prevent the build of plaque, which is a film of bacteria that coats teeth and contributes to gum disease, tooth decay and cavities.
For the best results, individuals should concentrate on the nooks and crannies, making sure they remove as much plaque and left over food as possible.
Contrary to popular belief, it is not best to brush teeth after breakfast in the morning. Instead, people should brush before they tuck into their first meal of the day. This is because tooth enamel is softened by the acid contained in food and drinks, meaning it can be worn away by brushing. As a general rule, individuals should always try to wait for an hour after eating before they brush their teeth.
When choosing a brush, most adults should look for a product with a small head and a compact, angled arrangement of long and short bristles. Medium or soft bristles tend to be best. It doesn’t matter whether individuals opt for electric or manual versions. They both work as long as they are used properly.
Flossing and mouthwash
As well as regular brushing, it is a good idea for people to floss. This helps to dislodge food wedged between teeth and it can reduce gum disease and bad breath by removing the plaque that forms along the gum line. For the best results, individuals should floss once a day and the best time to do this is before going to bed.
Mouthwashes containing fluoride can also contribute to oral health by helping to prevent tooth decay and by getting rid of remaining bacteria that may have been missed during the brushing process. However, people should not use mouthwash immediately after brushing. Instead, a good time to use these products is after lunch.
Plaque-disclosing tablets
To help them see how much plaque is on their teeth, consumers can invest in special tablets that dye plaque either red or blue. By using these tablets, people can get a clear idea of the areas they are missing with their toothbrushes. Because the dye can last for several hours, it is best to do this at bedtime.
Regular checkups
As long as they follow this advice, people should stand a better chance of keeping their teeth and gums healthy. However, it is still crucial that they have regular dental checkups. By doing so, they can ensure that any problems are picked up quickly, meaning damage can be minimised.
Anna Longdin writes regularly about dental health. She visits sites including City Centre Dental Practice to ensure she’s always up to date on the latest industry news and developments.