Maintaining good oral health

Maintaining good oral health as we come out of lockdown

Your oral health continues to be important and although we should be more cautious going forward, we should not let recent events cause us to neglect this.

It is vital that as we get used to new routines, that we do not forget about our oral health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to decay and gum disease which in turn is detrimental to your health.

Here are some hints and tips to help you get your oral hygiene regimes into your daily routine.

Maintaining good oral hygiene…

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes. Brush your teeth as soon as you wake up and just before you go to sleep.
• After brushing your teeth spit the toothpaste out and do not rinse with mouthwash or water. This allows the elements in your toothpaste to stay on your teeth for longer and help strengthen your teeth.
• If you want to use a mouthwash, use it away from toothbrushing times.
• Use Fluoride toothpaste as it strengthens your tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to tooth decay.
• Clean between your teeth at least once a day with floss or Tepe brushes. Check out our video on Facebook which shows you how to use Tepes and work out what size you should be using.
• If you have been unwell change your electric toothbrush head or manual toothbrush. Toothbrushes can be a safe haven for bacteria and viruses.
• Ensure your toothbrush is kept away from other family members toothbrushes to prevent contamination

Be mindful of what you are eating and when…

• Try to eat 3-4 meals per day instead of 7-10 snacks per day.
• If you need to snack try to avoid sugary foods and drinks as much as possible. Try some healthier alternatives such as popcorn, cheese, raw vegetables, breadsticks, nuts or plain yogurt.
• Bad snacks for your teeth are not just sweets. Sticky foods that get caught in you teeth such as raisins, dried fruit and crisps can be harmful too.
• Safe drinks include water and milk. Drink these between mealtimes.
• Drink more water. This can help wash out some of the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes.
• Hydration keeps your immune system healthy.

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