FAQs
Keeping your teeth healthy and strong is all about having habits that promote oral health. First, we have to avoid foods, drinks and substances that threaten the health of our teeth. Secondly, we have to learn to keep the bacteria that causes tooth decay at bay. Avoid smoking, eating highly sugary foods and going for too long without brushing, flossing and rinsing out your mouth. Drink plenty of water, eat a nutritious diet and never skip a dental check-up. Don’t just focus on brushing your teeth, also pay attention to your gums and tongue because bacteria can also linger there.
The healthiest drinks for your teeth are low in sugar, and acidity, so stay away from fizzy drinks, citrus-based juices and avoid drinking beverages with added sugar. Water also great for reducing the bacteria in your mouth. Fluoridated water is especially great because it helps reduce cavities and tooth decay. Milk is also great because it contains minerals and nutrients that strengthen teeth, replenish enamel and reduce tooth decay. Brush your teeth, use mouthwash and floss after drinking fizzy and sugary drinks to avoid the build-up of bacteria in your mouth.
General dentistry is focused mainly on preventive measures to avoid dental issues. This means taking care of your teeth and gums to keep them in good condition, to ensure the long-term health of your smile.
General dentistry includes regular dental check-ups and cleaning. Restorative dentistry is used to help mend and repair numerous issues that can arise with your teeth, like tooth loss, decay, chips and breaks. This type of dentistry includes implants, dentures, fillings and root canals.
Your dentist orthodontist will help you discover which route is best for your specific issues.
2 minutes is how long to brush teeth for kids. It’s important that we teach our kids not to rush through their dental routines in the morning and before bedtime. 2 minutes is enough time for them to effectively clean the surface of their teeth, and their tongue. As a parent, you can time how long they are brushing their teeth for, or you can make it more fun by playing a 2-minute song while they brush their teeth. You should also make sure you’re teaching your child to floss and use mouthwash as part of a full dental health routine.
Sugar alternatives don’t have the same impact on your teeth than actual sugar does. When you eat high-sugar foods, you set in motion a process that can lead to infection and decay.
The sugar can break down the enamel on the surface which weakens the teeth, and if the sugar sticks to your teeth it can lead to bacteria, which is what leads to decay and disease. Artificial sweeteners don’t have the same reaction. They don’t get metabolised the same way sugar does which can make them a lot better for your dental health.
Many people bring their child for their first dental visit at the age of 3. However, this is actually three years too late. You should bring your child between 6 and 12 months of age and no later than age 1. Early examination and preventative care will protect your child’s smile now and for the future. It will also establish a dental home for them. Not only this, but it is also a great way to catch oral health problems early and provide the correct treatment if necessary.
You should keep your child’s teeth clean in the same way adult’s follow an oral hygiene routine. This means that you will need to follow the following steps:
- Brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time
- Floss once a day
- Avoid sugary food & drinks
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
Visit the dentist twice a year for check-ups
Baby bottle tooth decay occurs in infants. This often occurs when babies are left to fall asleep with the bottles. The sweetened liquids such as milk and fruit juice create a sticky substance on your child’s teeth called plaque. This can lead to tooth decay. The best way to avoid this is to limit the amount of fruit juice your child consumes and opt for water when possible. Do not allow your child to fall asleep with his/her bottle and clean their teeth twice a day.
Brushing your teeth once in the morning and once at night is a good practice. However, you should wait for about 30 minutes after you have eaten to avoid pushing acid from the food into your teeth.
Whether you choose an electric or a manual toothbrush, you can receive a great clean! Just be sure to select a toothbrush with soft bristles.
You do not need to floss your teeth as regularly as you brush them, however, you should aim to floss them once a day.
To achieve optimal results, we recommend that you floss at least twice a day. Suggested times include:
- When you wake up in the morning
- After lunch time
- Before going to bed – sleep with your pearly whites feeling clean and fresh
We recommend that you start teaching your child to floss as soon two teeth have come through and continue to teach them until they are around 8 years old when they have the dexterity to floss.
