​​​​12 Dentist Tips for the Best Smile Ever

1. Brush your teeth at least twice a day (two minutes is the recommended time). If you face difficulties in using a manual toothbrush, use an electronic toothbrush instead.
2. Floss your teeth at least once at night before sleeping. Toothbrushing alone cannot remove bacteria and food particles in between your teeth. Floss or other interdental aids need to be used to remove these bacteria and food debris.
3. Cleaning your tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush can help to remove bad breath caused by bacteria and food debris on your tongue.
4. Use toothpaste that contains fluoride, which helps to strengthen your teeth and prevents tooth decay.
5. Saliva contains minerals such as fluoride, calcium and phosphate that help to destroy bacteria and re-mineralise damaged tooth enamel. In addition, it has antibacterial properties that help control bacterial population.
6. Stay hydrated by drinking the daily recommended amount of water. Avoid drinks like coffee, tea and alcohol as they are diuretics that lower saliva’s protective functions.
7. Avoid smoking as it can also reduce salivary flow. Furthermore, smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of periodontitis, i.e. a severe form of gum disease. In addition, smoking can also lower the chance of success of some treatments.
8. Avoid frequent snacking on sugary and acidic foods and drinks. If you have to snack, choose healthier choice like fruits and nuts. They are better for your overall health and your teeth. If such drinks had to be taken, using a straw will allow minimal contact with teeth.
9. See your dentist and your Oral Health Therapist at least twice a year. Any signs of oral diseases can be detected earlier thus prolonging the longevity of your teeth.
10. Professional cleaning of your teeth by a dentist or an Oral Health Therapist should also be done regularly to prevent oral diseases. the lo​ngevity of your teeth.
11. Change your toothbrush every three months or earlier if its bristles are sprayed, or when your cold or flu virus has run its course to prevent re-infection.
12. Eating fresh fruit and vegetables is not only good for your health; it is also good for your teeth. The fibres from these fruits or vegetables can also help to remove some bacteria in your mouth.

​Ref: Q15