Oral Health Advice

Brushing Your Teeth

Brushing teeth regularly is the most effective method for removing plaque. If this is not removed bacteria builds up, which can cause periodontal (gum) disease. It is essential to brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and a suitable brush twice a day.

If you are taught good oral habits at an early age, you are more likely to continue this practice into adulthood.

For advice on how to brush your own teeth or help brush your child’s/children’s see below.

If you would like brushing advice, because you or a member of your family have got a brace fitted click here.

Toothbrush – What Type is Best for Me?

A toothbrush with a small head is better at reaching awkward places. Speak to one of our hygienist who will be happy to recommend the most suitable brush for the shape and size of your mouth.

It is recommended that you change your toothbrush at least every 3 months. Take a look at your current toothbrush and see whether the bristles are splayed, bent or worn. If they are then it is time to change your brush.

Tooth Brushing – Adults

1. Starting at the back, put the bristles of the toothbrush at the junction between the teeth and the gums. Keep the bristles tilted towards the gums.
2. In small circular movements, gradually but gently work around the mouth making sure you brush both the inner and outer surfaces.
3. Brush each surface of every tooth – remember that molar teeth have five sides.
4. Use dental floss or interdental brushes for the tight spaces in-between your teeth.

Tooth Brushing – Children

You should start brushing your children’s teeth as soon as the first teeth appear. The earlier children get used to having their teeth brushed, the more likely they are to adopt it as part of their normal daily routine. By the age of two children should be having their teeth brushed twice a day. This should be done with a special children’s toothbrush and a small pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste.

Children may find it difficult to clean their own teeth effectively up to about seven years of age. Parents are advised to follow our simple guidelines for helping their children brush their teeth effectively.

1. Stand behind your child and get them to tilt gently their heads backwards so that you can get the best possible view of all their teeth.
2. Starting at the back, put the bristles of the toothbrush at the junction between their teeth and the gums. Keep the bristles tilted towards the gums.
3. In small circular movements, gradually but gently work around the mouth making sure you brush both the inner and outer surfaces.
4. Brush each surface of every tooth – remember that the molar teeth have five sides.
5. Always make sure your child spits out the toothpaste but doesn’t rinse out with large amounts of water as this reduces the benefits of the toothpaste.

The advice given above is intended as basic guidelines only and doesn’t take into account any specific problems. If you have any further queries regarding oral health then please ask for advice from one of our hygienists who are qualified to give professional advice regarding the oral health of both adults and children.