
Good oral hygiene is essential to preventing dental problems. Plaque, a soft, sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth from sugars in your diet and saliva, is the main cause of cavities and gum disease. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, plaque can harden into tartar.
1. Simple Tips to Maintain Oral Hygiene
- Brush thoroughly at least twice a day, with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque buildup in between your teeth where your toothbrush cannot reach.
- Clean your tongue using your toothbrush or floss to refresh your breath and remove bacteria.
- Use mouthwash to refresh your breath and get rid of bacteria.
- Choose a healthy diet that provides essential nutrients for healthy teeth and gums while limiting sugary food.
- Avoid tobacco smoking.
- See your dentist regularly for hygiene services and oral checkups.
2. How to Brush Your Teeth
- Place the head of your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward your teeth.
- Brush in small circular movements on all surfaces of your teeth, keeping the toothbrush angled at 45 degrees.
- Brush your teeth for two minutes, for a minimum of twice a day.
3. How to Floss
- Use around 40 cm of floss.
- Wrap the ends of the floss around your fingers in each hand and slip the floss in between your teeth.
- Repeat this for every tooth with strokes up and down between each tooth to remove food and plaque.
- Floss every day.
4. How to Use Mouthwash
- Pour the correct amount of mouthwash indicated and swish for 30- 60 seconds in your mouth.
- Spit out the mouthwash.
- Do not use mouthwash immediately after brushing your teeth as it will wash away the fluoride left on your teeth from the toothpaste.
- Some mouthwash contains alcohol so children have to be extra careful not to swallow them accidentally.
By following these tips, you can maintain excellent oral hygiene and significantly reduce the risk of dental problems.