Oral Hygiene Instructions

Brushing is the cornerstone of oral hygiene, but are you doing it right? • Frequency: Brush twice a day, ideally in the morning after breakfast and before bed. • Duration: Aim for two full minutes each time. Set a timer, listen to a song, or use an electric toothbrush with a built-in timer. • Technique: • Angle: Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. • Pressure: Gentle pressure is key. If you have been diagnosed as an "aggressive brusher" try to brush with your non-dominant hand for a month and then switch back, this will allow you to be more aware of how much (or little) pressure to apply when brushing! • All Surfaces: Make sure to clean all surfaces of every tooth: outer, inner, and chewing surfaces. Don't forget the often-missed back molars! • Gumline: Pay special attention to the gumline, where plaque often accumulates. • Tongue: Gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria that cause bad breath. • Important: Do not rinse after brushing your teeth as this washes away the toothpaste that was used to help protect and strengthen your teeth. • Toothbrush Choice: Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can erode enamel and irritate gums. Consider an electric toothbrush; many studies show they can be more effective at removing plaque. • Replace Regularly: Change your toothbrush or brush head every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed or you've been ill.

Brushing alone only cleans about 60% of your tooth surfaces. Flossing is essential to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline, areas your toothbrush can't reach. • Frequency: Floss at least once a day, preferably before bed. • Technique: • Length: Break off about 45-60 cm of floss. • Wrap: Wrap most of it around the middle fingers of one hand, and the rest around the middle finger of the other hand. • Guide: Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers. • Gentle Curve: Gently slide the floss between your teeth, curving it into a "C" shape against one tooth, and slide it up and down along the tooth surface, going slightly below the gumline. • New Section: Use a fresh section of floss for each tooth to avoid transferring bacteria. • Don't Snap: Never snap the floss into your gums, as this can cause damage.

Mouthwash can be a helpful addition to your routine, but it's not a substitute for brushing and flossing. Mouthwashes that contain alcohol are best to avoid. It destroys the good bacteria that aid digestion. Keep the mouthwash for a midday after lunch- minty boost. • Therapeutic Mouthwashes: Look for antiseptic or fluoride mouthwashes. Antiseptic rinses help reduce bacteria that cause gum disease and bad breath, while fluoride rinses can help strengthen enamel and prevent cavities. • Consult Dr. Essop: Ask us which type of mouthwash would be most beneficial for your specific needs. There isn't a "one size fits all" when it comes to mouthwashes and toothpastes. • Timing: If using a fluoride mouthwash, avoid rinsing with water immediately afterward, as this washes away the fluoride.

What you eat (and don't eat) plays a significant role in your oral health. • Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods/Drinks: These feed harmful bacteria that produce acids, eroding enamel and leading to cavities. This includes fizzy drinks, sweets, fruit juices (in excess), and highly processed snacks. • Choose Tooth-Friendly Foods: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products. Water is your best friend. It helps rinse away food particles and acids. • Avoid Constant Snacking: Frequent snacking keeps your teeth under constant acid attack. Try to stick to meal times. • Water Intake: Increase your frequency of drinking water to help your saliva protect your teeth. Drink water after meals and acidic drinks. 2-3 sips of water every thirty minutes is ideal.

Even with the best at-home care, professional check-ups and cleanings are indispensable. • Frequency: Visit us every six months for a comprehensive examination and professional cleaning. We can spot issues like cavities and gum disease early, often before they cause pain. • Professional Cleaning: Our hygienists can remove stubborn plaque and tartar that your toothbrush and floss can't reach. • Personalized Advice: We can offer tailored advice and demonstrations on brushing and flossing techniques specific to your needs.