Dental Hygiene

Achieving healthy teeth takes a lifetime of care. Even if you’ve been told that you have nice teeth, it’s crucial to take the right steps every day to take care of them and prevent problems.

Your smile depends on simple dental care habits-understand and implements these basics and you're on your way to great teeth and a fresh mouth!

Brushing

1. Brush your teeth twice a day. When you brush, do a thorough job. Don’t go to bed without brushing your teeth.
2. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably.
3. Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle - aiming the bristles toward the area where your tooth meets your gum. Gently brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the outside, inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue.
4. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months -or sooner if the bristles become irregular or frayed.

Flossing

Daily flossing is important as you can't reach the tight spaces between your teeth and under the gum line with a toothbrush.

When you floss:

Take it one tooth at a time. Slide the floss into the space between your gum and tooth. Use the floss to gently rub the side of the tooth in an up-and-down motion.

Mouthwash

In addition to daily brushing and flossing, use a mouthwash containing fluoride to promote oral health.

Drink more water

Water continues to be the best beverage for your overall health — including oral health. Drinking water after every meal can help wash out some of the negative effects of sticky and acidic foods and beverages in between brushes.

Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables

Eating fresh, crunchy produce contains healthy fiber, but it’s also the best choice for your teeth.

Limit sugary and acidic foods

Sugar from foods, convert into acid in the mouth, which can then erode the enamel of your teeth. These acids are what lead to cavities. Acidic fruits, teas, coffee, and cola can also wear down tooth enamel.

Baby teeth are important too!

• Start brushing a baby's teeth as soon as they come through (especially before they go to sleep).
• Get children into a teeth-cleaning routine early and help your child have healthy teeth for life.
• Make sure to always brush your child's teeth or rinse after a sugary food item.
• Promote healthy eating habits with fruits and vegetables and less of sugary food items.
• Children should have their first dental visit within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by one year of age. The goal is to have your child visit the dentist before there is a problem with his or her teeth.

See your dentist at least twice a year

Even the most dutiful brushers and flossers need to see a dentist regularly. At a minimum, you should see your dentist for cleanings and checkups TWICE A YEAR or EVERY 6 MONTHS. They will also be able to spot potential issues and offer treatment solutions.

Don't Delay Dental Treatments!!

Remember, early detection and treatment of problems with your gums, teeth and mouth can help ensure a lifetime of good oral health.

One key factor to having a good oral hygiene routine is understanding, what your oral needs are. During your next check-up or cleaning appointment, ask your dentist if there is anything you should pay extra attention to during your oral hygiene routine.

By: Dr. Isra Wasim
General Dentist
Thumbay Clinic, Umm Al Quwain