Three easy steps to improve your dental care in 2016.

Buy a New Toothbrush.

Researchers have found that your toothbrush can harbour as many as 10 million germs and bacteria. Fortunately these bacteria aren’t a big threat to your dental health. Just rinse your toothbrush in tap water, and let it air dry. If you are concerned you can soak your toothbrush in Mouthwash which is an antiseptic.

According to the British Dental Health Foundation worn-out toothbrushes cannot clean your teeth properly and may damage your gums. They recommend changing your toothbrush every two to three months, or sooner if the bristles become worn.

Buy a toothbrush with a small head and medium or soft bristles. Your toothbrush should allow you easy access to all surfaces of your teeth.

Brush your teeth using fluoride toothpaste that contains at least 1,350 parts per million (ppm) fluoride at least twice a day for 2 minutes. Children, six and under who don't have tooth decay can use a lower-strength children's toothpaste, but make sure it contains at least 1,000ppm fluoride.

2. Floss every day – usually at bedtime

Proper flossing removes plaque and food particles in places where a toothbrush cannot easily reach — under the gum line and between your teeth. It's best to floss before brushing your teeth.

Wash your hands before you reach for the floss.

Take about 18 inches of floss and wrap most of the floss around your middle finger or index finger of one hand and a small amount onto the middle or index finger of the other hand.
Gently slide the floss between the teeth in a zigzag motion.
Make a C shape with the floss as you wrap it around the tooth. Pull the floss 8 to 10 times upward from the gum line to the top of the tooth
As you move from one tooth to the next, use a fresh section of floss. Don’t forget to floss the back side of each tooth.

If you find using dental floss difficult you can try using Glide Floss picks.

3. Visit your dentist every six months for a dental check-up and professional cleaning.

A dental check-up allows your dentist to see if you have any dental decay and helps you keep your mouth healthy. Leaving problems untreated could make them more difficult to treat in the future. It's best to deal with dental problems early, or, if possible, prevent them altogether.

Resources

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/choosing-a-toothbrush-the-pros-and-cons-of-electric-and-disposable

http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/basics/brushing-and-flossing/article/toothbrush-care-and-replacement

http://www.everydayhealth.com/dental-health/how-often-should-you-replace-your-toothbrush.aspx

20/20 Dental Practice Blog

Three easy steps to improve your dental care in 2016.