Master and maintain your oral hygiene during National Smile Month

Dr Anjali Rajah offers her advice about oral hygiene.

1. Brush twice a day, floss and use a mouthwash once a day.

2. Try using tongue detoxers to keep your mouth fresh and healthy.

3. Use a mid-priced electric toothbrush to clean teeth well and keep gums healthy. I recommend electric toothbrushes over hand toothbrushes, as they rotate much faster (5000-7000 revolutions/minute). All round, electric toothbrushes allow a much more effective clean.  Most electric toothbrushes also have timers on them, so they indicate the correct length of time for brushing, which should be two minutes.

4. Place the head of the toothbrush 45 degrees into the angle of the gum, use only gentle pressure (excessive pressure can lead to gum recession), then after a few seconds move the brush onto the surface of the tooth to give that a good clean too. 

5. You should brush for two minutes each time, morning and night (allow 30 seconds for each quadrant in your mouth). Use a slim line of toothpaste for adults, a pea size for children.

6. Always choose brush heads that have dye indicators, which fade over a period three to four months, indicating a new head is required. Replace your brushes and dental tools every three months. This is because the bristles will splay over time and are then not as effective at cleaning.

7. Regular flossing is important to maintain a healthy smile. Flossing allows removal of plaque which builds up between the teeth, however, most people dislike flossing due to the difficulty in access, especially at the back of the mouth.

8. Avoid drinking red wine, black tea and coffee to protect teeth from staining. Dark herbal teas may also stain your teeth, so watch out for these drinks too!

9. Avoid whitening toothpastes; some can be abrasive and can result in teeth sensitivity. Have your teeth whitened professionally instead at a dental surgery.

10. Finally, visit your dentist every six to 12 months for a check-up and clean to ensure your mouth and oral hygiene is maintained and in good condition at all times.

For more information visit www.nwsmiles.co.uk