Easy tips to avoid tooth decay and gum disease

Most of us think that being healthy depends on eating a balanced diet, along with getting enough exercise. And while both are crucially important, the health of your teeth and gums has a major effect on your overall health. For example, gum disease has been linked to ailments including pneumonia, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and exacerbated diabetes symptoms.

For healthy teeth and gums

Brushing

Brushing your teeth removes the plaque that causes tooth decay and gum disease.

• You should be brushing for a minimum of two minutes, twice a day.
• Soft-bristled toothbrushes with a small head and a flexible neck are most effective in removing plaque and debris from your teeth, without damaging your teeth and gums.
• Pressing harder on your teeth does not mean a better clean! In fact, too much pressure can damage your gums and tooth enamel. If the bristles are wearing out on your toothbrushes well before the three-month mark, you’re pressing too hard, and you should ask your dentist to show you a less damaging technique.
• Don’t use too much toothpaste. A small pea sized amount is all you need.
• For children make brushing fun! Play a song as a reminder to brush for the recommended two minutes.
• Replacing your brush, (manual or powered) every three months or when the bristles start to spread apart, whichever comes first.

Choose the right toothpaste

• The Australian Dental Association recommends one that contains fluoride. When added to toothpaste, fluoride strengthens teeth, making them more resistant to attacks from sugar and acid. Fluoride can also help remineralise (heal or reverse) early decay.
• Depending on your risk of dental decay your dentist will recommend a type of toothpaste best suited to you.
• Consult your dentist about the best toothpaste for your children and at what age you should start using it.

Flossing

Nearly half the surface area of your teeth lies between them; so, flossing should be an essential part of your oral care routine and not an optional extra. Speak to your dentist about the correct way to floss.

Food

• Limit sugary treats to mealtimes, rather than between meals.
• Drink tap water throughout the day and after meals.
• It is not just the obvious lollies and soft drinks that can cause decay. Frequent snacking on foods with hidden sugars like biscuits, crackers, cereals, chips and even dried fruit can cause acid attacks on your tooth enamel.
• Foods with ‘no added sugar,’ often contain a higher level of natural sugar.

Source:

https://adawa.com.au/

https://www.ada.org.au/

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