We all learnt a lot of basic dental advice as children, and much of it still applies. However, a few things have been reconsidered. Consider this list as basic revision with some updates.
Brush At least twice a day, preferably after the morning and evening meals. Soft bristle, smaller head toothbrushes are preferable; they are less harsh on gums and help access the back teeth.
Toothpaste that contains fluoride will reduce decay, but rinsing the mouth out after brushing all but prevents this from happening. Either let the paste stay on the teeth for a few minutes or use a mouthwash. Avoid mouthwashes with alcohol.
Some individuals use Bi carb of Soda when brushing their teeth. There is some controversy here as it may be too abrasive, wearing away the tooth surface. This matter is yet to be resolved.
Don’t brush straight after drinking acidic and carbonated beverages. The acid stays in your mouth and you will slowly damage the enamel of your teeth. Rinse your mouth with water and wait half-an-hour before brushing.
Bottled water is controversial. Tap water usually contains fluoride, which does reduce decay to some extent. Bottled water contains no fluoride, something reflected with the recent increase in decay. Bottled water also contains little in the way of trace elements. Nobody realized how much we needed these trace elements till we stopped drinking them. Clean water contains nothing harmful; neither does it contain the trace elements essential for our diet.
Limit acidic drinks, like carbonated beverages. Diet sodas do contain less sugar than regular beverages, but they are still acidic and cause problems. Furthermore, the artificial sweeteners are suspected of causing their own health problems. If you suffer from fatigue, weight problems, headaches or any health issues you should consider an allergy check.
Some dentists recommend sugarless chewing gum, which seem beneficial. But the sweeteners in chewing gum can cause allergic reactions, and Xylitol may be as harmful to teeth as sugar.
Dental floss is inexpensive, easy to use and it is of great benefit to teeth. Regular use will greatly reduce problems.
Electric toothbrushes were once a novelty item, even if they did encourage children to brush more often. Latter models actually proved superior to regular brushes for cleaning teeth, but there is some concern that the vibration might cause some long terms problems. Try using the electric toothbrush twice a week and using the regular one twice a day. Oscillating head electric tooth brushes seem to be the best type.
Use a mouthguard for sports or similar activities.
Visit a dentist every six months. For all types of dental care Sydney has many practices contactable online.
