How to maintain Good Oral Health: Tips and tricks

HOW TO CURE BAD BREATH
Build-up of bacteria causes plaque and is often responsible for bad breath. Plaque is a film of bacteria and mucous that grows on your teeth. Some of the bacteria in the plaque make acids which decay your teeth. Other kinds of bacteria in the plaque make toxins which cause gum disease. The easiest and most effective way to remove the plaque from your teeth is to brush and floss. Those costly rinses just don't do it! When the plaque is hardened on your teeth it is called tartar or calculus. Then you need a Dental Hygienist or Dentist to remove it by "scaling" the tartar off. A good oral hygiene routine is important to fight bacteria for a healthier mouth and fresher breath.

BRUSH:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day - for at least 5 minutes - first thing in the morning and last thing at night.

The best toothbrush is one with a small head and soft bristles. Electric toothbrushes can also be very good, particularly for people who find proper brushing techniques difficult to master - Remember to replace your toothbrush promptly when it's worn.

Don’t forget your tongue! A high percentage of bacteria accumulate in the area at the back of the tongue. Clean this area with your toothbrush as well.

FLOSS:
Using dental floss to reach between the teeth will help reduce the food particles and greatly enhance the effects of your dental hygiene routine. Wrap the floss around two fingers. This way you won't "choke" your fingers. Saw the floss back and forth to slip it between the contacts of your teeth. Once between your teeth curve the floss slightly around the tooth and scrape up & down to remove the sticky plaque. Waxed or unwaxed floss is fine. Just as long as you use it every day, once a day.

Approximately 90% of problems arise from areas between the teeth!

RINSE:
A mouthwash fights bacteria and reaches places that brushing cannot. Use twice a day - in the morning and last thing at night after brushing.

Not all mouthwashes are created equal! Did you know that many mouthwashes contain alcohol and not only do they sting, but they can also dry your mouth – making bad breath even worse. Choose an alcohol-free mouthwash that works without stinging or burning.

VISIT YOUR DENTIST:
Pay regular visits to your dentist and ask your dentist to check your cleaning and oral hygiene technique. If dental problems are the source of the bad breath, they will need to be treated and cavities or dentures repaired. Sometimes a dentist will use an odour meter which can measure the volatile sulphur gases and the extent of the bad breath. See your Dental Hygienist for a cleaning at least twice a year.