Honest Dental Advice

What is Oral Hygiene? 

 "Oral Hygiene is the practice of keeping one's mouth clean and free of disease and other problems by regular brushing of the teeth and cleaning between the teeth. It is important that oral hygiene be carried out on a regular basis to enable prevention of dental disease and bad breath."

What should your Daily Oral Hygiene Routine look like?
  • Brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste; Once before you go to bed as the last step of the day, and at least once more prior during the period of the day. 
  • Cleaning between the teeth; This is called interdental cleaning, and is just as important as brushing your teeth with a toothbrush. This involves using tools like dental floss, tape or interdental brushes to reach areas that your toothbrush cannot. A toothbrush cannot reach between the teeth and therefore only removes about 50% of plaque from the surface of the teeth.
  • Make use of a Mouthwash or Rinse; Mouthwash should be an essential part of your oral health routine. Combined with proper brushing and flossing, it will leave your mouth clean and your breath fresh. Different types of mouthwash can help limit the amount of plaque that grows on your teeth and gums, making it easier to keep a clean mouth.
What products should be staples in your Dental Routine?
  • Toothbrush (Manual or Electric) - Remember to replace your manual toothbrush and head of your electric toothbrush every 3-4 months, this will ensure that the worn bristles will not affect the success of clearing away plaque
  • Toothpaste - A fluoridated toothpaste is the best tool to protect your teeth against cavities, and an important supplement needed to remineralise already affected enamel. 
  • Interdental Brushes/Floss - Products such as Oral-B 'Glide Floss', Oral-B 'Aquacare' Oral Irrigator and TePe 'Interdental Brushes' are your best friend in reaching the areas between your teeth. 
  • Tongue Scraper - The tongue contains numerous bacteria that causes unpleasant breath. It is designed to remove the debris built up on the tongue, starting at the back of the tongue and gently scraping forwards. Remember to clean the sides of the tongue as well as the middle portion. Rinse the tongue and mouth afterwards.